I don’t think any of us like taking our kids to the doctor, particularly when it involves vaccinations. But when they were little, they had no idea what was coming. One minute they’re showing the doctor they know how to say “bababa” and then the next someone is sticking a sharp needle in their thigh.
But Neko is five now. She has caught on to this routine and is not impressed. We haven’t had shots in a while, so she’s been warming up to the doctor’s office a little bit, you know, so it’s not a tantrum the ENTIRE time we’re there.
Today she had to go to the doctor. Not just for a cold or cough, but for the dreaded 5-year-old appointment which involves FOUR shots. Yes, I said four. My friend Akiko just took her son to this same appointment, so I knew exactly what I was in for. I debated the sneak attack, feigning ignorance with a “Shots? I had no idea you were going to have to get shots!” But I think we’re past that. It was time for honesty.
So we hatched a plan.
In the picture above you see our good friend MO from the WALL-E movie. When I made the original WALL-E purchase, I scooped up this MO and stashed him. This morning Tom wrapped him up and tied it with a bow.
Shortly before the appointment, I broke it to Neko we were going. Requisite screaming and protesting ensued. And then? I revealed…THE PRESENT. I declared it could be opened after we had signed in at the doctor’s office. Suddenly tears turned to smiles, her shoes were on, and she was happily buckling the present into Ellery’s car seat.
On the way there we discussed what would happen—weighing, measuring, heart check, ears, eyes. And then I broke it to her about the shots. But then? Secret weapon number two! WALL-E band aids! There was still fear in her eyes, but it was mixed with gleeful anticipation, and suddenly she said, “Okay. I understand.”
I’m not going to lie to you, when we finally got to the shots and the first needle went in, I had to hold her down for the other three. But up until then? Perfect. Cooperative. Downright charming.
Vaccinations with MO? Mo’ better.