I have a big personality, but with my nieces I've made an effort to hang back. It's a challenge for me that I believe has paid off bigtime. My 2 nieces ( 2 and 5) know that I am a receptive, non-judgmental, but extremely supportive ear. I love observing them draw, paint, make up stories and dances, etc. It would be easy for me to add-on to what they do, or show them new things, but I definitely get the sense that my help would change their imaginative process and maybe even 'take over' what they are doing...and I feel I must be careful not to do that. Sometimes I bring over some art materials and just let them do whatever they want with them. They always surprise me with what they come up with. I know that I am absolutely their favorite aunt, and I truly believe it is because I am a 'follower' and an appreciative audience with them, not a leader. Has anyone else experienced this?