I agree with you and like your opinion "And why would anyone take it upon themselves to change the message instead of passing on exactly what he heard? I guess it is human nature to add our two cents, to think that we know better." I hadn't thought of that angle.
It only took one of the kids to really changed the message for it to almost change completely.
I am finding another element of poor communication. As an older person, I'm finding fewer people pay attention to what I say and seem to look past me when it's my turn for customer service. It's been interesting and unexpected.
The simple experiment showed how easy it is miscommunicate.
Yes, it is annoying when people look past you as if you didn't matter. I have encountered that many times too. 😊