Daycare provider: Were you aware that Baby is saying (she leans in and whispers), "What the heck?"
Me: (Leaning in and straining to hear over the sounds of ten 2 year-olds running around) Ummm....yes, I am. (I smile, because really, it's pretty damn cute. And frankly, I am surprised it isn't another well known 4-letter word.)
Daycare provider: (smiling then quickly turning to her "concerned" face) Well, you see, it's not that we have a huge problem with it, and I know it could be worse, it's just that we are concerned that the other children will start using it. You know how they like to repeat things, right?
I blink a few times.
Daycare worker: And well, we are afraid that the other parents will complain. SO....we don't want him to say it anymore, ok?
Well, shit. At least he's not the daycare "biter."
Ok, ok, cuteness aside, Baby using "what the heck?" correctly is a wonder to me. We didn't deliberately teach him to use it, or how to use it, or when it's best not to use it. Like all of Baby's language, it has grown organically. I must say, I was pretty proud of the little guy for at least using it in the correct context. I mean really, sometimes situations warrant a good, "what the heck?!" Right?
We belong to a good daycare. They are affordable, adore Baby and are willing to take us part-time when Baby #2 is born. We can't risk losing them. So if that meant that, "what the heck" had to go, then so be it. "Jesus Christ Almighty, what's their problem?" was my father's response to the whole thing-like I said, I am grateful it was only "heck" we were dealing with. I sat down with Baby that very night. Our conversation went something like this:
Me: Baby...(I turn the remote toward the TV and turn it off)
Baby: What the heck?
Me: Actually, Baby, that's why Mommy and Daddy want to talk to you. You cannot say "what the heck" anymore, ok buddy. (I look at my husband for guidance)
Daddy: You see, kiddo, it's better to say another word.
Me: That's right. Instead of "what the heck," how about you say, "oh my goodness?"
Both my husband and I grin foolishly at Baby and nod our heads like this is the best expression ever.
Baby: Ok.
We blink.
Baby: Oh my goodness, what the heck?
Well, it's a start.
