In recent years as our family has aged I have struggled to find  the right word for a common situation. As a paediatrician, I never liked the word ‘kids’ in place of children. It seemed somehow belittling (no pun intended) and maybe even a bit rude. But as ours grew up I faced a more challenging dilemma. Does it make any sense to use ‘kids’ or ‘children’ when referring to your offspring who are now in their forties or fifties? I think not, but I can’t a more suitable word. Any suggestions?