Ian: Daddy, I want some jelly beans.
Michael: no.
Ian: I really do want some though, Daddy.
Michael: Fine. If you can tell me what 5 + 3 is, I’ll give you that many jelly beams. So what’s 5 + 3?
Ian: Zero… Plus… Eight.

Michael was excited because this demonstrates that Ian hasn’t just memorized some basic addition facts, but actually understands them. I, personally, am pleased to know that he actually gets the concept of “zero.” I had been wondering.

Also, I notice that he isn’t lacking in the one upsmanship department. I believe he enjoyed his jelly beans.