Robin, thank you! That's a great compliment, coming from a mother and teacher. I think what's interesting about all of this is that I never felt drawn to kids or like I knew how to be around them until after I had my own. I think the wonder of seeing things through their eyes was the key to really connecting with kids—even those who aren't my own. 

Meredith, yes, those things we think we already know all about are the things that are most fun to re-discover from a kid's point of view. The "why" question can get old if you have a two-year-old, but for the rest of the world, I don't think we ask it often enough. (Don't be nervous about your guest post—everyone will welcome your perspective!)

Trina, your elderly neighbors seem to have a great setup worked out. You bring up another whole dimension: how important it is for young people to interact with people a couple of generations removed. Our society isn't nearly as intentionally  intergenerational as it should be. I'm really thankful both of my grandmas are still alive (in their 90s!) because it gives my girls opportunities to spend time with people who have lived through so much of what we consider history. And of course my grandmas love being around kids.

suzen, my parents both taught throughout their careers, so I know how much work it is—and how enlightening and rewarding it can be. When I was a teenager, my mom used to often tell us stories during dinner of the different insightful and funny things her students would ask and observe. So priceless.

Dave, the whole idea of giving kids a chance to share what they're thinking, without worrying of being judged or laughed at, is so important. Think of how much we miss when we seem too busy, or when we don't tend to take kids seriously. And I love how your literal point of view as a photographer becomes a perfect metaphor for our interactions with kids. Empathy—yes!

Nicola, once again, you and I have much in common! I'd have to say, as a natural conversationalist myself, that I enjoy that aspect of parenting more than just about any other, too. You bring out the dynamic perfectly here: "...it’s been challenging and rewarding to figure out how to answer her questions thoughtfully and truthfully." All of these conversations you're having with her now are preparing you for the tougher ones to come. You'll do great.

Jeb, it's good to see you again! I'm not surprised you're back with a hard question, either. :) "Do you think there will come a day when we value wonder/imagination/curiosity sufficiently to foster them all of our days?" I don't know. It seems like some adults do a pretty good job of valuing those things in their everyday lives—does that mean they've figured out the secret, or do they just have personalities that are wired in that particular way? Maybe it wouldn't be possible for everyone, as a society, to *embrace* "wonder/imagination/curiosity," but there certainly could be more societal respect and reward for those things.