Tobey: Discovering the post office

I know Tobey's not even three but I think sometimes I forget that there's still so much for him to discover for the first time. We went to the post office today (actually to do the kids' passports) and while waiting in line, Tobey and I explored the lobby. Amazing how many simple things you can find to teach about when you have a long time to kill.

I got to teach Tobey about P.O. boxes and he used my keys to try opening them. He explored stamp machines, weighed random envelopes on the scale and marked himself with a "Priority Mail" sticker. He opened the big bin where big packages go and he entertained himself outside on the circular ramps and steps. The long wait was probably really boring for Tom who was actually in line. It wasn't too bad for me and the boys.

The funniest part of the visit was Tom's interpreting Tobey's speech. I had taught Tobey the word passport when we were outside looking at the big banners saying "Apply for a passport here!". Then when we went inside, Tobey said "packport" to Tom but Tom had no idea what he was talking about (despite the whole reason why we were there, despite a large placard above Tom's head that said "PASSPORTS"). After a couple of tries, I had to interpret and I heard people in back of us in line giggling. All went smoothly and we're glad we planned ahead enough NOT to have to pay rush charges!