Since becoming a parent, I’ve discovered the extent of my own ignorance. Even the classic question — “Why is the sky blue?” — has tripped me up. Who would have expected a real kid — my real kid — to ask such a thing? Everyone, of course.
The good news is that, by going back to Beginner mode, I’ve now plugged some glaring holes in my knowledge. Yesterday was an example of this, as our three-year-old ran up to me, excitedly clutching his brand new book: Flags of the World (Over 100 Facts for Kids). Flicking through it with him, something became obvious: this book was about my level.
Some flag facts for you:
#5 — Africa has about 55 countries, more than any other continent. (Should I know this already? Probably.)
#16 — Dominica is one of only two countries to have purple on its flag. The other is Nicaragua. (Qatar and Sri Lanka, it turns out, have maroon)
#19 — The constellations on Brazil’s flag show the sky on the night Brazil became a country. (Specifically Rio de Janeiro on November 15, 1889)
#62 — The flag of Nepal is the only national flag that is not a square or rectangle.
#64 — By law, the flag of India must be made from a hand-woven cloth called khadi
Here’s a common phrase you read online: explain it like I’m five. Problem is, that’ll likely be too complicated for me. Instead, explain it like I’m three.