Amanda Evans was startled by her son, Johnny, a lively three-year-old, protesting to go to daycare. “No, mommy, no!” he wailed, throwing himself onto the floor. Amanda watched the scene unfold, knowing that if it turned into a full-blown tantrum, she’d be late for work again.
For two years, Johnny had been attending the same daycare, loving every moment. This sudden change in behavior baffled Amanda. She had consulted with her pediatrician, who suggested that it could be Johnny going through the ‘terrible threes.’ However, Amanda felt that it was something more than just a phase.
Witnessing the fear in Johnny’s eyes as she scolded him, she realized something wasn’t right. In a bid to comfort him, Amanda sat on the floor, cradling Johnny in her lap as he sobbed. She gently asked him why he suddenly disliked daycare, but all he could whisper was, “I don’t like!” Amanda probed further, inquiring if the other kids were being mean, but Johnny remained tight-lipped.
Amanda promised her little boy that she would pick him up earlier than usual, just after morning playtime. Johnny’s face brightened a little at the thought of skipping lunch at daycare. Sensing something off, she questioned the significance of lunch in this matter.
At work, Amanda requested the afternoon off to tend to her concerns. Her understanding boss agreed, knowing well the challenges of being a working mother.
Amanda resolved to discover the root of Johnny’s distress by visiting the daycare during lunchtime. The facility was strict about not allowing parents into the children’s areas, but she could still observe through the large windows.
When Amanda arrived, she was informed the children were having lunch. She peeked into the dining room and saw Johnny at his table, but instead of his usual sunny demeanor, he appeared distressed. A teacher she didn’t recognize sat beside him, urging him to eat.
The sight was disturbing. The teacher forcefully pressed a spoonful of mashed potatoes to Johnny’s lips as he refused, tears streaming down his face. Watching her son being coerced like this was too much for Amanda to bear. She stormed into the room, protecting her son from the forceful caregiver.
“Stop this immediately!” Amanda’s stern voice cut through the room. The teacher looked stunned. “You’re traumatizing my son,” Amanda continued, addressing the teacher in a calm yet assertive manner. “You should never force a child to eat. Nutrition is about health, not fear or punishment. What message are you trying to send to these children?”
The teacher apologized profusely, and Amanda took Johnny by the hand, reassuring him with promises of a special treat that afternoon.
The next morning, there was no resistance when it was time for daycare. Johnny seemed back to his cheerful self. Over the next few weeks, Amanda made it a point to visit during lunch, ensuring her son—and the other children—were treated with care and respect. The teacher’s behavior changed dramatically, and Johnny rediscovered his joy for daycare.
From this experience, Amanda took a valuable lesson about parenting: “Raising a child is all about setting and respecting boundaries.” Amanda’s proactive approach ensured Johnny’s wellbeing and highlighted the importance of vigilant parenting.
