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Curiosity killed the cat, we might warn a too inquisitive child. Or, Blood is thicker than water, we say to emphasize family loyalty.
These phrases are catchy, memorable, and roll off the tongue so easily. They seem to wrap up big ideas in neat little packages.
But what if these familiar lines are only part of the story? What if the wisdom we think we are sharing is, well, a bit incomplete?
For children, who are still learning how the world works and how language shapes our understanding, this is a pretty important question. This is where we, as parents and educators, have a fantastic opportunity to equip them with critical lenses.
Think about it. Language is powerful. The words we use, and the stories they tell, help children build their understanding of complex ideas, social norms, and even their own potential. When kids hear these sayings, they often take them at face value. But what if Be quiet sometimes means Don't stand for what's right? Or what if Be like the rest subtly discourages them from embracing their unique voice?
This is why looking a little closer at the sayings we use can be such a valuable exercise. Many of these popular phrases are actually shortened versions of longer, more nuanced expressions. And sometimes, that missing part changes the meaning quite dramatically.
Take Curiosity killed the cat, for example. It sounds like a clear warning against asking too many questions or exploring too much. But the often omitted second half is, …but satisfaction brought it back!. Suddenly, the message transforms. It suggests that while curiosity might involve risks, the reward of learning and understanding is worth it. This fuller version celebrates the very spirit of inquiry we want to foster in our children. It encourages them to be brave, to ask, and to learn.
Then there is Blood is thicker than
water. It is often used to imply that family bonds are always stronger
and more important than any other relationships. However, one of the original
sentiments behind such phrases points to a different understanding: The
blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb. This older
meaning suggests that the bonds we choose, the covenants we make with friends
and allies who share our fights and values, can be even stronger than the ties
of family we are born into. What a different and empowering message for a child
navigating the complexities of relationships!
Exploring these kinds of linguistic histories with
children does more than just satisfy curiosity. It helps them develop critical
thinking skills. It teaches them to look beyond the surface, to question, and
to seek deeper understanding. It also enhances their literacy, their
appreciation for the richness of language, and even their understanding of
history and how ideas evolve.
Sparking this kind of inquiry does not require
formal lessons. It can start with a simple question during a conversation: 'I wonder where that saying comes from?' or 'Is there another
way to think about that?' Engaging children in these little language
explorations can be quite fun.
When we encourage children to look at sayings
through these critical lenses, we are not just teaching them about words. We
are teaching them a way of approaching the world. We are showing them that it
is okay to question, to explore, and to seek out their own understanding. We
are helping them find their own bold voices.
Aaron Uscilla has been building businesses,
creating stories, and writing music since childhood, growing up in New Haven,
Connecticut. He is the creator of Silly
Sayings...and the Curious Kids Who Called Them Out
Find him through Instagram or his LinkedIn page
