[mettamage]

> When you write out an idea from start to finish in simple language that a child can understand (tip: use only the most common words), you force yourself to understand the concept at a deeper level and simplify relationships and connections between ideas. If you struggle, you have a clear understanding of where you have some gaps. That tension is good –it heralds an opportunity to learn.

I have lived with my grandparents for the majority of my life. My grandpa isn't the most intellectual person on this planet. Yet, since I've grown up I've always seen him as my intellectual equal and because of that he always listened to when I had understood a new concept.

I am sure that because of this 'in-built mechanism' in my family structure I got set up to be 'naturally talented' at explaining things since I was always used to put things into simple terms subconsciously.

What I am learning from this is that when I have a kid, I have to act like an 8 year old so that he/she will experience the same blessing as I did.

I still thank my grandpa for listening to my (most of the times) very long-winded and convoluted explanations, forcing me to simplify until I had a feeling he understood me well enough.

[koss38]

Good observation. But apply it to everyone not just your kid, and observe the results.

Apply it to people who you disagree with politically. Apply it to your relationships at home and work. It's basically what Fred Rodgers, Dale Carnegie, Marshall Rosenberg (and hundreds of others) all talk about.