Children are getting smarter by the generation. I am very amazed by how kids these days know exactly what they want, and know how to communicate with several different languages when they are with different persons. It’s very common in HK that kids are being looked after by overseas domestic helpers. Their helpers do speak with them in English. Some do even speak with the kids in their own countries languages. Surprisingly, the kids do know how to response to their helpers regardless what languages they are in communication. This is what I observed a helper with a one-year-old kid on bus last week. My cousin has a Pilipino helper at home for more than ten years. He can response to his helper well regardless she speaks with him in English or Pilipino. Some kids’ grandparents do speak with their grand children in their hometown dialect. The kids also pick up fast with whatever dialect it is. Kids’ parents usually speak with them in Cantonese; naturally, this also becomes their first language.
I have really noticed among urban HK children, is that they know exactly which human behavior to switch on when facing with parents, grandparents and helpers. Their expression is different when they ask their helpers to help compared with their parents. They are usually much more direct with their helpers instead of their parents and grandparents when they want to ask for something. (eg. when they ask for ice-cream or chocolate) I think there must be related to phenomenon（现象）, whether it is learnt or not. It’s really amazing how children automatically（自动地）know all at such a young age, which mode of behavior, and at what tone and manner to use them, who to use them on, and when.
1. The example of my cousin’s story shows that __________.
A. The kids know exactly what they are in need of.
B. The kids know how to communicate well with others.
C. The kids know how to response to their helpers.
D. The kids know all the above at so young an age.
2. Who will the kids turn to for help in the first place?
A. Kids’ parents B. Kids’ grand parents
C. Relatives D. overseas domestic helpers
3. What does the underlined phrase “pick up” most probably mean?
A. succeed in seeing or hearing B. gain or acquire it by purpose
C. learn it without taking lessons D. take hold of and lift it
4. Which of the following expresses the main idea of the text?
A. Kids have an amazing childhood. B. Kids are getting smarter in HK.
C. Kids are truly amazing and smart. D. Kids get along well with the helpers.
