Translation Error

This week I realized that I have made a serious translation error from Joseph-ese to English.  I realized that this mistake I've made has probably added to my stress level and trouble with my youngest child.  And I'm glad that now I am aware of my error.

Often Joseph says something along these lines:  "Duwa Bo Biler?"  or "Duwa Track?" or "Duwa Tos a Tain?"

And my translation has been:  "Dora, Bob the Builder?" or "Dora, Track?" or "Dora, Thomas the Train?"

Then this week I realized that Joseph hasn't watched a Dora episode for probably a year and a half, ever since we cancelled our cable.  I have a hard time believing that at 2 1/2 years old he has that kind of memory or brand loyalty. 

I also realized that he doesn't end there.  The complete statement looks like this:  "Duwa Bo Biler?  I wa Bo Biler."  So for at least 6 months, I have been thinking this child has been saying, "Dora, Bob the Builder?  I want Bob the Builder."  Like the first sentence is where he is laying out the options and then he is deciding on which one is best. 

And then the light comes on.  Ah!  "Duwa"  is Joseph-ese for "Do you want"!!!  So he isn't weighing the options, he's trying to convince me that I want to watch that particular show, and that's great because he does, too.

Jack says that Joseph needs a lesson on content communication already.  Just say what you want instead of asking what I want, buddy!

At least now I can stop mentioning Dora to him all the time, especially when he's really asking for something to eat or a certain toy to play with!