Several children are standing together near my desk, watching our library pet, Libby the cockatiel, who is cocking his head and chirruping at them. They’re discussing things they are old enough to do on their own. First they talk about who gets to check out books on their own, but as they each have their own library cards and hence can all check out on their own, they move on.
Child A: I have a house key.
Child B: I do too. AND I can use it if I walk home and get there before my mom because sometimes there is traffic.
Child C: I have a house key too.
Child A: No you don’t.
Child C: I do too! My dad keeps it on his dresser because I’m going to get it when I’m older enough.
