A MOM’S STORY: Go Ahead, Judge Me

To say that I was slightly irritated by my under-caffeinated and over-jostled condition that wet winter morning in the overcrowded coffee shop would have been an understatement. Working types elbowed aggressively past me, perhaps assuming from my disheveled appearance and whining 3 year-old toddler in his stroller, that I somehow had fewer responsibilities than they did. The glacial pace of the coffee line, coupled with the screeching of the barista’s espresso machine and agitated buzz of the packed café’s patrons, was beginning to take its toll on Toddler. As if infected by the frenzy, Toddler was beginning to whine more deliberately. Because its too early and I’m too tired, I offer up a half-hearted song. Toddler gets louder. Forcing greater effort, I try a favorite descriptive game, “This animal has a long neck!” Decibel level increasing, cue the stroller-writhing. Not good. Dreading the imminent meltdown, I launch into mommy mode, resorting to old trusty “I Spy” for the distraction. Screaming ensues, punctuated with stroller-kicking. Inevitable glances of disdain from my fellow café patrons follow. I reach for a book but it is received with a definitive twist in the opposite direction. Desperate to calm Toddler, and to alleviate a rapidly deteriorating situation, I grab the iPad. I lean over to a suddenly pacified child and deliver some instructions. Toddler manages a half-nod as he expertly swipes and taps his way to the desired app. Mommy – and pa...
Source: Conversations with Dr Greene - Category: Pediatricians Authors: Tags: Perspectives Parenting Toddler Toddler Education Toddler Fun & Play Source Type: blogs