Dear Jackrabbit #13 – Finding Your Voice (first words)

Dear Jackrabbit,

This isn’t a deep letter about “finding your voice” as in discovering your unique way of communicating to the world about art or something like that. This is more about the fact that you have moved on making cooing and other sounds–almost like you’re trying to imitate words you hear–maybe–or trying to communicate in a way that isn’t a fussy sound.

I really appreciate that. Truly.

So what will your first word be? I did an informal survey among other new dads I know and “mama” seems to be the smart bet, with “dada” or “baba” a close second. I am taking the path of least resistance in this topic and encouraging you to say “mama” by repeating it to you over and over.

I’m not terribly concerned that you’re going to confuse me with your mother, but by learning to say a fairly easy word like “mama” and realizing in that little baby brain of yours that sounds you make equal words that have meaning will then make your next words come forth all the easier. I”m not a child psychologist, but it makes sense to me.

Some people reading this letter to you, Jack, are probably surprised and/or disappointed that I’m not trying to take a more creative track in this encouragement of your first word. I don’t blame them. It would be much more in character for me to try and teach you words like “anarchy” or “m’lord” or “THAC0”.

Those words will come in time. “Mama” is an easy and very sensible word to learn first. And sometimes when I repeat it to you, I will repeat it over and over in rapid succession to the tune of a certain television show that premiered in 1966. To whit:

“Mama-mama-mama-mama, Mama-mama-mama-mama, Mama-mama-mama-mama…BATMAN!”

(Note: I’m sure Grandma has plans of her own.)

I expect “mama” will win out, but I admit I will be secretly pleased with you the first time you look at me and shout “Batman!”

Yes, daddy is Batman–as far as you know.

Oh, by the way, congratulations on rolling over from your belly to your back. As I understand it that is considered a milestone in your development. You appear to be on schedule as these things go.

Well done, Boy Wonder!

All my love,

–Dad

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About jdteehan

John is a proud geek and nerd, a publisher, a freelancer, and a new dad. He's into books, gaming, and music. He's a good cook, a passing musician and artist, and terrible fisherman. The biggest thing in his life right now is being a new dad and he has started a blog all about that. Visit Dearjackrabbit.com for more on that. Also visit Merryblacksmith.com for word on publishing projects.
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