A conversation between a mother and a small group of five-year old children.

Mother is volunteering in Little Boy’s classroom at school.  Mother hears Little Boy and another boy talking loudly.  Mother walks over to table where Little Boy is sitting and sees a little girl scowling.  Mother talks with the little girl.

“What’s wrong?” – Mother

“I can’t do my work because the people at my table are talking too loudly.” – Little Girl

“Oh.  It does seem like some people are talking too loud at this table.  Maybe you should give them a message about how you feel.” – Mother (Mother looks at Little Boy)

“Okay.  I can’t get my work done because it’s too loud at this table.  Would you please not talk and do your work quieter?” – Little Girl

“Well done.  Did everyone hear the message?” – Mother

“I can’t get my work done either.  It’s too loud at this table.  Everyone needs to stop talking.” – Little Boy

“You were the one who was talking.” – Little Girl

“No I wasn’t.  I was only talking because he was talking to me.” – Little Boy (Little Boy points to Other Little Boy)

“You talked to me first and  I couldn’t get my work done.” – Other Little Boy

“Now both of you are talking again.  See.  I told you.  They won’t be quiet.” – Little Girl

“Okay everybody.  You all have work to do.  Let’s try to get the work done with very little talking.  Alright?” – Mother

“Momma.  I wasn’t the one who talked first.” – Little Boy

Mother looks at Little Boy with wrinkled brow.