Elaine in Training for Seinfeld 2022

You just can't make these stories up. While getting a manicure in a nail salon with my daughter, my granddaughter Molly heard the phone ringing. Because no one was getting up to answer it, 3-year-old Molly said, “The phone is ringing! Is someone going to pick it up?” The manicurist gets up from her chair, answers the phone in English to declare the name of the nail salon and then continues to speak in another language to the caller. Molly laughs when the manicurist hangs up the phone and says, “I can do that too, Uni Nails, shomi sooni oni oni…”

My daughter was still mortified when she shared the story with me. I was amazed that Molly, at age 3, displayed such humor and respect in one brief moment in a nail salon.

Many times I wonder if phone calls are not answered because the person you are calling just doesn't want to talk to you or merely is too busy to get the phone. How many grandparents call their children and feel upset when they call and no one picks up the phone? You know the family is home. Are the people there choosing to ignore the phone ringing? Maybe they are involved in something and can't pick up. Do you call back later and ask why they did not previously answer?

How does a parent prioritize? Do you walk around with your cell phone and talk while you are potty training your 2 year old or not pick up if someone calls? Do you text? If you do, what message could you be sending to your 3 year old?

Never underestimate the mind of a toddler. The child might understand more than you think. Be prepared for fireworks! Happy 4th of July!