Talk to little kids like they’re smart. They’ll rise to meet it.

Kids hear the difference between a voice that is explaining and a voice that is performing. When you use real words with them and wait for a real answer, they stretch to meet the level you set. Talk down and they will give you back exactly the small answer you asked for.

Next time a younger cousin or a kid on your team asks you something, answer it the way you would answer a friend. Then ask what they think, and let the pause go long enough for them to actually fill it.