T.T.: Lean in Close

Should you find yourself with a fussy toddler whose attitude could use a little improving, I have an idea for you. Because, of course, I have had a toddler now for . . . nine years. Straight.

Yikes.

Anyway. Here's what you do.

Tell the child you have a secret to share, but to hear it, they have to lean in and let you whisper it in their ear. And then, when they're waiting expectantly for you to whisper something thrilling, you . . .

Oink like a pig right into their ear.

I have had a 100% success rate getting little kids to laugh at this. In our house, it's known as The Piggie Secret, but feel free to call it whatever you wish.

I have no idea how this started, but we're on child number four and The Piggie Secret is just as popular with her as it was with her brothers before her.

You can cover your ears, but you can never escape The Piggie Secret.