Our Three-Year-Old has Begun Apologizing

It had been my understanding that it didn’t make sense to teach very young children to apologize, because, until they understand empathy, it wouldn’t mean anything. As the daughter of a Canadian, I apologize constantly… egregiously to Americans. I actually mean it when I apologize, too. I feel bad for most things, even if they have nothing to do with me.

SO when Cole came home and apologized for nothing… (seriously, it’s only been two days and I’ve already forgotten why he apologized) I naturally assumed it was his preschool’s fault. lol. I acknowledge this could be my doing, it probably is, but the timing is suspicious. I want our boys to apologize, but not before they fully grasp what it means. It shouldn’t mean nothing right?!?

I’m at a loss. I don’t know whether its good that he’s getting practice saying it, even if he doesn’t fully “get it”. I don’t want him to apologize to the degree that I do though. I think some people doubt my sincerity, because I’m ALWAYS apologizing. I don’t want people to doubt his.

Has anyone else had any of these thoughts? I’m a repeat offender at over-thinking nonsense… I would love to hear your thoughts on this.