Gabriel scolds his toys

Ever since he was about eight months old, Gabe has had a real interest in turning the tables on Mommy and Daddy.    He used to take his spoon and try to feed us.    He often tells us very sternly, “sit down!”  But now that he’s getting older and developing a more robust imagination, he’s got other options.    We’ve both noticed that when he’s playing with his dolls he often takes on the role of the parent.    He tells Elmo to go night-night.   He stages fights between Cookie Monster and Captain America, and then tells them to stop and makes them kiss and make up.   He feeds the doll he calls “girl” and gives her time outs.    It’s all very cute, but also a bit disturbing because it makes me wonder if I’m not overly harsh with him.    It certainly seems harsh when he’s doing it!