Thursday, May 14, 2009

My Ears Are Still Ringing

I'm offering some unsolicited advice today. Free of charge. You're welcome.

Never, EVER, put a four-year-old child in a position where they feel like it's necessary to scream at the top of their lungs.

At four years of age, children have a large lung-capacity and strong vocal chords.

It is loud and embarassing and a downright painful experience for everyone involved.

Any child confronted with the reality that they're about to get four shots at their four-year-old checkup... well, they're bound to feel like they need to somehow vocalize their objection.

And it may seem like the longest 3-4 minutes of your life when you have to hold them still during the process and calm them down afterward.

I will say that the promise of stickers and donuts seems to have a calming effect.

(For both the grown-up and the preschooler).

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

i can hear it clear over here! i know the vocal capacity my 2 year old has...i can only imagaine it at 4! i hope you had a COUPLE of donuts, you deserve it!