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It’s very common for a
first-born child between the ages of eighteen months and three years
to call her parents by their first names. She imitates what she
hears and since her parents and their friends, neighbors, and
relatives all use first names when talking to each other, she uses
first names too. Even if her parents call each other “Mom” and
“Dad,” she may still use first names because those are the ones she
hears most often.
Many parents don’t mind if their child occasionally uses first
names, although some consider anything other than “Mom” and “Dad”
disrespectful. When a child uses her parents’ first names, however,
she intends no disrespect—usually she’s just mimicking what other
people say. Over time, this imitative behavior will diminish and the
child will stop using her parents’ names.
If you’re bothered or embarrassed when your child calls you by your
first name, remind her to say “Mom” and “Dad.” But remember that it
will be hard for her, especially if she’s fewer than two, to call
you “Mom” and “Dad” consistently, since she doesn’t usually hear
other people call you that. If you have a second child, you’ll
notice that he or she rarely uses your first name. That’s because
there’s an older sibling to copy, and because the second child is
used to hearing “Mom” and “Dad.”
A common question related to first-name use is, “What should my
child’s friends call me?” Some parents are most comfortable with
first names and believe they’re easier for young children to
remember and use. Other parents want to be called “Mrs.” or “Mr.”
Choose whichever makes you comfortable and let your child’s
playmates know what you’d like to be called. |
