Toddler Semantics

I'm learning that the way I phrase things can be very important for toddler life.

For example, I have the worst time trying to rinse the shampoo from Caroline's hair on Wednesday nights. I've been telling her, "look up at mommy," which works just about until I start to pour the water, and then she looks down and the water is streaming down her face.

On a whim, I started telling her, "don't look down," and let me tell you... world of difference!! I guess toddlers are a little better at obeying what you tell them NOT TO DO, rather than what TO DO.