Children are a joy and pain depending on the day, time, and what is going on. But we can learn a lot from them, or a few things about ourselves. So hold on tight, things get interesting from here on out.

1. Watch what you say

The number of fake words I've come up with to replace what I'd usually say, and how many times I've almost slipped up is embarrassing. But switching from peer to kid mode takes time. And at this point, I can try and explain things properly, even if I have to reword it. But trying not to inspire bad behavior in a kid is hard work.

2. Games and toys have rules

I have made the wrong voice while playing with lego people, not played Monopoly with the actual rules, and been a part of too many games of hide n' seek to count. Everything has some limitation with kids, even if it is the fact that, well, the Lego construction worker does not have a high voice. There's always something.

3. There is such thing as too many questions

I love when kids ask me things, even if I have to patch up some phrases they overheard. But, no matter how simple you make it, sometimes explaining things can take a while. Curiosity is great, as is persistence, but many subjects do not require twenty questions. Patience is a virtue.

4. Food and activity don't always mix

Whether their stomach is upset, or they are just moving around while trying to chew, food can come up because of activity. Or they can choke, it's not impossible. When kids are just learning to balance these two areas of life, it is a process.

5. Expressing your opinion is not optional

Where there is honesty, there is opinion, and whether it is from their parents or other people, trying to make it clear when it is appropriate to say certain things is a struggle. But at least they are not afraid to say it.

6. Honesty can span from rough to hilarious

Oh, VBS memories, where I have been hilariously roasted and surprised by what comes out of a two to three-year-olds mouth. The kids are sometimes even younger, but it is an experience for sure. Kids say the most interesting things; it's refreshing.

7. You will know every TV Show theme possible

I don't have to go through this too much, but I feel for any babysitter or individual who can sing along to a children's show theme and smile, even if they've heard it for the millionth time. At least they'll never run out of fun songs to sing.

8. And use nicknames for objects as a go-to phrase

I've caught myself on occasion many days describing a pacifier as a "wubs," and all because I had been around an adorable little boy too many times to ever refer to it as a pacifier. Honestly, I went to Walmart looking for them for my sister and caught myself saying it out loud. Children change your vocabulary sometimes.

Anything else I missed? I'm sure there was something. But we love them. After all, we were children at some point.