Being that we’re studying Ancient History this year, we are incorporating Greek root words into our curriculum. We learn one Greek root each week, along with the meaning and some English words derived from the root. Each day, I ask for a volunteer to tell the word, the definition, and an example.

Fred, the four year old, typically plays quietly nearby while I have family school with the older children, joining in as his interest is piqued. Typically, Greek words don’t appear to be among the scope of subjects that interest him. 

But apparently, he’s been paying attention lately.

Last week, our Greek root was Pyro, meaning “fire.” On the list of English derivatives was pyromaniac, which was defined as “a crazy person who plays with fire.” The kids were amused by this, and we talked a little about how mania means “craze.”

So this week, our Greek root word is Hydros. Yesterday, when I asked for a volunteer to tell about the word, Fred’s hand enthusiastically started waving. My curiosity wouldn’t allow me to resist choosing him. Here’s what he said:

“Hydros - Water. Hyromaniac – A crazy person who plays with water.”

Well… While hydromaniac was not on the list, and I’ve never actually heard the term used before, I believe that technically, he would be correct.

The boy’s got logic, I tell ya!