Guess My Age

It’s my birthday. I am 40. I teach Kindergarten.

Student 1: How old are you?

Me (thinking, "I can turn this into a teachable moment. I've done this in the past and it's always turned out to be a great math lesson."): Well, usually that's kind of a personal question that adults don't like to answer, especially women, but I'll make you do some math today and see if you can figure it out.

Student 2: Are you 16?

Me: No, I'm MORE than 16. (Teacher writes it down on the easel, thus creating a visual for them, or so she thinks...)

Student 3: 3?

Me: No, 3 is LESS than 16. I'm MORE than 16.

Student 4: 100?

Me (thinking, "Okay, it's kind of an insult, but hey, it's MORE THAN 16!!!): Okay, well, that IS more than 16, but no, I'm LESS than 100. You know, if I were 100, I might have wrinkly skin and walk with a cane and talk with a gravelly voice (demonstrates), or I might even be dead. Many people don't live to be 100."

Student 5: 17?

Me: Well, no, if I were 17, I'd still be in high school. I'm MORE than 17.

Student 2: 16?

Me (thinking, "Okay, she’s stuck on 16 & I'm going to scream any minute! Can't you guys get that number out of your heads? I haven't been 16 for eons! Does this look like the body of a 16-year-old? I need a drink!!!!): I think I'm going to put away this poster for awhile and let you think about it.

We never did return to the poster. It just wasn’t worth it.