How a Box of Cheez-Its Exposed the Genius (and Peril) of Literal Kids
Picture this: It’s a quiet afternoon. You glance up to see your five-year-old, eyes agleam, clutching an entire box of Cheez-Its. Parental instincts kick in. “Nuh uh. That box stays in the kitchen,” you say. You expect compliance, maybe a little grumbling, and definitely a few crumbs. Instead, your kid pauses… and what happens next changes how you parent forever.
He vanishes, only to reappear moments later—bowl in hand, filled to the brim with every Cheez-It from the box. He presents it, Simba-style, as if crowning a new king. You and your spouse exchange a look. “Uh oh.” In that instant, you know: this kid is going to keep you on your toes for life.