On being treated like an adult

It's great to dream like a kid, but no fun to be treated like one. It bristles because we feel that, even if the person involved has best intentions, we've outgrown being treated like a child. Some behaviors to consider if you want to avoid this situation...

Make long-term plans instead of whining

Ask hard questions but accept truthful answers

Don't insist that there's a monster under the bed even after you've seen there isn't

Manage your debt wisely

Go to school, early and often

Don't call people names

Get your own drink of water

Don't hit your siblings

Stop bullying

No tantrums

(On the other hand, all the good stuff about being a kid helps you be happier and endear yourself to others: being filled with optimism and hope, smiling, trusting, finding creative solutions to old problems, hugging for no good reason, giggling and sharing your ice cream cone with a friend.)