Muffle Muffle Moo

I have been trying to assess the little twins verbal skills. This is difficult, because they are on the move, and I have the echo in the house. The "Echo" is named Matilda. She either is repeating what I say very loudly and in dumbed down tones to the little twins and Lucas, or, she answers the questions I ask before anyone else has an opportunity.

For instance, yesterday I was sitting with an open book of animals. Rowan seems to know most of his animals, and earlier that morning I thought I heard him say "cockle doo" for rooster. I held out the book and said "Rowan, what does a rooster say?"

Rowan opens his mouth to reply, but then Tilly blurts out "cock a doodle doo".

"Tilly, I was asking ROWAN what a rooster says. Rowan, what does a rooster say?"

Rowan opens his mouth, but, Tilly blurts out "COCK A DOODLE DOO."

"Tilly, are you listening? Mommy wants to hear if Rowan knows what a rooster says. OK?"

"OK" (I am glad toddlers reply to redundant questions).

I make strong eye contact with Rowan and ask "Rowan, what does a rooster say".

Rowan doesn't attempt to reply. Tilly screams "COCK A DOODLE DOO!!!"

I then clasp my hand over her mouth. Regain eye contact with Rowan and ask, "Rowan, what does a rooster say?"

Rowan opens his mouth, but, before he can reply beneath my hand Tilly says "Muffle, Muffle, MOO!!!"

I give up.

Here is Tilly first thing in the morning, and Lucas with his 7 pacis.