Why?

I've always dreaded the "why?" stage. I thought we just might luck out and have it delayed until, say, age 12, but no. It's here. Not too bad yet, but definitely here.

Me: You need to get in your bed.
Keara: Why?
Me: Because you need to take a nap.
Keara: Oh. Okay!
Me: Thanks, now go to sleep.
Keara: Why?
Me: Because it's nap time.
Keara: Oh. Okay!

At least it ends quickly and she's satisfied with the answers. That's one thing I'm noticing she's into right now. She needs to understand the reasons for things, if they make sense, she gives her approval and is very cooperative. Like this morning when we were going to Walmart, I went thru the light instead of turning left. As I did this, she protested:

K: Mom! I want to go to Walmart!
M: I know, we're going. I just went a different way.
K: Why?
M: Because there were too many cars at the light so I went straight.
K: Oh. Okay!

I know the "Why?" stage is SO important. I'm just grateful she fully understands what I'm responding with.