Ahhh, The Dentist

Journey had her first visit to the Dentist this week. She was excited about it right up until we walked into the room and she saw this chair. At that point she stopped smiling and told me quietly that she didn't want to do it anymore. Those of you who have had the privilege of hanging out with Journey in person will know that when she says she doesn't want to do something she MEANS it! We did manage to get her into the chair (and I quickly took this picture) but she got scared and jumped out as soon as the dentist started to recline it. We tried a number of bribes and threats. Journey knows what she wants (and doesn't want) and is not easily swayed. In the end I sat on the chair and sat her on my lap and held her down insisting that she MUST open her mouth. The dentist (a very patient lady) managed to count and inspect all 20 of her teeth but decided to forego the cleaning until next time. It would have been traumatic for all involved and so I agreed that it should wait. Journey did get a new toothbrush out of the deal and even a sticker from the Dentist's Treasure Box.

Its so hard for me to know how to handle situations like this. My first thought was to deny her any treats cause she was disobedient. But then I tried to put myself in her shoes and realized that this was really a very strange thing for me to be asking her to do and of course she would be nervous about it. She wasn't trying to 'be bad' ... but was scared of the unknown, as I would be. So, in the end I let her have the treats and didn't discipline her for her reactions in the room. I tried to end on the most positive note I could so that she would be less adverse to going back for the cleaning. Next time maybe we'll try having 'Lamby' come along for comfort.