A 2×2 cartoon chart uses “Explanation” on the vertical axis and “Excuse” on the horizontal axis. In the top-left quadrant, labeled “3 year old,” a small figure tells an adult, “Teddy needs covered up,” while the adult says, “Honey, it’s the middle of the night. What is it?” Top-right quadrant: a child says “Bad dream.” Bottom-left quadrant: a child says “I don’t remember.” Bottom-right quadrant: a child asks “What is math?” Each panel shows different reasons kids might call a parent at night.
Actual recent responses.