Are You Driving?

In my job, I meet a lot of little children. Interacting with them is the highlight of my day. Especially since they are usually nervous when we first meet.

Years ago, I came upon an unexpected way to break the ice and help them feel comfortable. It happened like this.

One day a woman was standing and talking to one of my coworkers. As she did, a little boy clung to her side. He kept twisting and turning as his mother held his hand. I could see that he was a little scared of his surroundings and the adults in the room.

I decided to walk over to him. He saw me coming and started to move behind his mother. I knew that he probably was not going to talk to me.

As I knelt to speak, I noticed that the boy’s mother was holding her car keys. For some reason a question popped into my head.

“Are you driving?” I asked the little boy.

He looked at me and giggled as only children can.

“Are you driving?” I asked again.

“No,” he said and giggled. “Mommy is driving.”

“I thought you were driving,” I said. “Aren’t you driving?”

“I can’t drive,” he said. “I’m not old enough.”

By this time, we were making eye contact. He was laughing and so was I. Everyone in the room was watching us. His mother was looking down surprised at what she was seeing. I cannot blame her as I never expected that one question to bring about such a reaction.

The little boy and I chatted for a few minutes. I got to know his name. How old he was. What his favorite things to do were. It was an amazing moment.

I began to ask this question whenever I met a little child for the first time. It has worked talking with boys and girls. Their answers have led me to believe that children are much more aware than we think.

“I can’t see over the steering wheel.”

“I don’t know how to drive.”

“The steering wheel is too big.”

“I can’t reach the gas pedal.”

“Mommy (or Daddy) won’t let me.” (One of my favorites.)

“Mommy (or Daddy) has the keys.”

Every time they smile when answering the question. And every time it makes them feel good that someone is willing to listen to them. That someone is willing to spend time with them.

Sometimes when they leave, I will call out “Drive carefully.” This brings another giggle or laugh.

Who knew that a simple question could lead to so much joy? For the children and me.

 “Are you driving?”

Three simple words.

I never thought that question would become the icebreaker that it is.