Kids Say and Do Funny Things

Apparently, my nephew needs to read the book Being Frank, and I recommended it to my mother-in-law so they could check it out.  My nephew loves books and I think he'd enjoy that one.  He needs it because he is being a bit too honest with anyone and everyone he encounters. Ha!

At my 10 year high school reunion, several of my classmates shared stories about funny things their children had done or said.  One girl stated that her five year old was at church when this man walked in with his mobile oxygen tank (it was on wheels).  The room was silent when her daughter asked, "Mommy, why did that man bring a vacuum cleaner to church?"

Another classmate revealed that her daughter sometimes stared at people with physical disabilities.  In particular, they saw a man that only had one arm.  The other arm was absent past the elbow.  My classmate said her daughter knew she wasn't supposed to stare, but couldn't help herself.  It was as if her eyes were glued to the man's arm.

What funny things have children done or said around you?

Finding Inspiration in Pet Stores

As a picture book writer, I look for inspiration everywhere.  It doesn't matter if I'm at a gas station or the grocery store.  Good stories are all around us.

While out shopping with my parents this weekend, I told them I wanted to visit Pet Smart.   Kids are always in pet stores acting... well... kid-like.

We walk over to the fish tanks, where a little boy and his mom stood, observing the various tanks of goldfish.  One tank was very full.  Lots and lots of fish!  Then, the little boy pokes the glass with his finger and the fish frantically scatter.  He finds it fascinating that he made them do that.

Standing just two feet away was his mother, I am assuming.  After he pokes the glass, she scolds him, warning him not to do that, but he can't resist.  The problem is that his mother is standing right there!  What does he do?

He pokes the glass again... with is elbow.

What funny things have you saw kids do lately?

Poop, Pee and Boogers

Pooping, peeing, passing gas and picking boogers. Yep, those are all actions that children think are hilarious, especially in books with illustrations.

As writers, we want children to enjoy reading, to learn by reading, and to do all these things with our books in their hands, but don't we have to satisfy the parents first?  After all, they are the ones buying the book.  Let's think about this in story format, shall we?

Sammy loved to visit the bookstore. His mom took him every Saturday morning.

One day, Sammy noticed a new, shiny book on the shelf.  Sammy looked closely at the book and giggled.  He grabbed the book and ran to show his mom.

"Mom, can I have this book?  I want it. Look!  That boy is picking his nose! Heee heee!"

Sammy's mom looked at the book and said, ".........."

So, what did she say?  I'm asking you.  Will parents buy a book that features a character doing something a bit gross, but completely human?