The article recounts an experience of shopping for new shoes with a 7-year-old boy who has strong attachments to familiar routines and items, like his astronaut-print shoes. When the store did not carry the exact shoes he wanted, the mother feared a meltdown. The boy initially struggled with the transition but eventually found a pair of red high tops that resembled his old favorite. This experience highlights the challenges of introducing change in the life of a child who thrives on predictability and routine.
"We went to the only Vans store near where we live in Maine. When we arrived, he ran to the kids section. After being measured, he told the employee he wanted exactly the same shoes, 'because I love astronauts.'"
"While he seems older because of his height and vocabulary, my son is still a little kid. I worried a meltdown was coming because of the bad news."
"I coaxed him into picking another pair that he'd like. He was timid, grabbing all the shoes and inspecting them, only to end up requesting a pair of red high tops."
"The employee went into the store's back room, and I could tell my son was not thrilled about this shopping experience anymore. When the employee returned, he carried a couple of boxes and a big smile."
Collection
[
|
...
]