None but the oldest children understand much English besides "What is your name?" and "How are you?" But their favorite English word is "Liam! "Liam!"
They all want to hold him, but Liam wants to run and jump and play!
Many times they are out "basking" in the grass when I take Liam out to play. They quickly mob him and Liam says "Jump! Jump!" and they all start jumping together. Liam is the smallest, but he tries to do everything these kids do.
Most Kenyan 14 month olds would still be treated very much like a baby and be tied to their mother or sister's back all day, or just sit on the ground or bed in the house. These children are mostly left to play by themselves all day with no supervision. I have noticed that American moms keep a much tighter reign on her kids than a Kenyan mom. Many of these kids may also have to cook their own meals if the parents are out working.
I used to worry that Liam would get sick or catch something from the kids. They obviously do not take meds when they get the sniffles, and do not wash their hands with soap. But I praise God that Liam has remained healthy the whole time we have been here. Of course kids don't think about germs or anything, they just play!
Our porch is a favorite play spot for them. They smash their faces against the window to catch a glimpse of what is going on inside our home. They love to watch us eat. Liam is so nice to them! He just turns around in his highchair and says "Hi!" Some things that Liam eats everyday like cheese and berry yogurt, these children could quite possibly go their whole childhood without eating.
I know when we leave, they will miss Liam dearly! And he will miss them too!
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