You Got Sarcasted

So, yes, I really am teaching my "almost six" year-old the ins and outs of sarcasm. And, contrary to the developmental psychology literature, she is getting it just fine, thank you.

A revelation from her bright, young mind: "Oh, sarcasm is like when you miss a basketball shot and I say, 'nice shot,' right? But, if I say 'nice try' I'm being nice." So, see, she gets sarcasm.

Why am I teaching sarcasm? It's part of a greater plan in the understanding of human communication. When to and when to not employ interactive techniques. Sarcasm, swearing, ingratiation, and selective empowerment are all means -- if properly utilized -- of effectively interacting with fellow humans.

But the funny story is how she conjugates the word sarcasm. If she throws one my way she'll smile and tell me, "Daddy! I sarcasted you!"