Chapter 14 - The Pediatrician Corrects the Record
Dr. Walsh reviewed Vanessa’s descriptions.
She did not accuse her of lying.
She said something more careful.
“Some of what you’re calling severe behavior falls within normal developmental range.”
Vanessa looked offended.
“So you think hitting is normal?”
“I think three-year-olds sometimes hit. That does not mean hitting should be ignored.”
“Then?”
“It means developmental context matters.”
Then the doctor looked at both adults.
“Consequences should be brief, predictable, and age-appropriate.”
Daniel asked:
“Is kneeling inappropriate?”
Dr. Walsh answered:
“I would not recommend forced kneeling on cold outdoor stone as a disciplinary method for a three-year-old.”
Vanessa crossed her arms.
“She was there less than ten minutes.”
The doctor answered:
“The duration is not my main concern.”
“What is?”
“That the punishment appears designed to produce submission rather than teach a specific skill.”
May you like
Silence.
That became another sentence the guardian ad litem quoted later.
