Re: The girl who took my breath away: a GM

In my experience, children prefer to be spoken to in a direct, non-condescending way. Even the ones who are unaccustomed to it will respond to it, after they get over their initial shock at being addressed so. People have remarked at how well children relate to me, and I believe its because I dont talk down to them, but rather address them as I would any adult with which I might converse . The subject matter may be different, but the tone is the same.

I recall a great conversation I had with a beautiful first grader; we chatted about everything from Star Wars to The Beatles. It was incredible how knowledgeable she was on the subjects that interested her, and how eager she was to discuss them with someone who shared those interests. She was smart and funny, and confident.

And, since I'm like you, I should point out that she had a radiant smile adorning her angelic face!