Today I went to the dentist and had to bring along both kids. My older daughter started whimpering when she saw me laying on the dental chair getting ready to get my teeth cleaned. I saw the look on her face and warned the hygienist that my daughter might get upset. I've been on the other side where I'd have a mom on my exam table and her toddler would get very upset when all I was doing was listening to her heart and lungs. Well, I was right and my daughter started crying the minute the cleaning tools turned on. She stood there by my side, holding my hand and crying unconsolably. Soon my four month old, who was in her carseat joined her sister in a symphony of screams. I felt bad for the entire dental office!There must be something about seeing one's mom being in a patient role that upset toddlers. I suppose they sense something may not be right and become fearful and protective of their mom. I remember trying to comfort other moms' kids as I strain to hear the heart and lung sounds in between loud whimpering sobs. Now, being on the other end and having my own daughter cry defensively for me was somewhat bittersweet. I must say though that a stethoscope is far less scary than those dental cleaning tools!
