It was a sunny afternoon, and Harry, the big boy of the house, was sprawled on the couch with his favorite habit—thumb-sucking. Ever since he was a baby, this soothing ritual had been his go-to comfort. But now, Mom decided it was time for him to let go of the habit.
“Harry, you’re a big boy now,” Mom said gently, kneeling beside him. “Thumb-sucking isn’t good for your teeth. Let’s try to stop, okay?”
Harry’s round eyes widened in shock. He pulled his thumb out of his mouth and stared at her as if she had just said the most ridiculous thing ever. Then, with a sharp squeal, he defiantly stuck it right back in.
Mom sighed, reaching for his hand. “No more, Harry. Let’s try something else to feel better.”
But Harry wasn’t having it. He let out a loud, frustrated cry and rolled onto his back, kicking his legs in protest. His little fists waved in the air as he screamed, “Eeeeek! Eeeek!” as if scolding Mom for daring to take away his comfort.
“Harry, stop that,” Mom said firmly, though she couldn’t help but chuckle at his dramatic outburst. She gently pulled him into her lap, holding his hands to stop him from reaching his thumb.
Harry’s cries grew louder, tears streaming down his cheeks. He wriggled and squirmed, but Mom stayed patient. “Shhh, it’s okay, Harry,” she cooed, offering him a soft plush toy to hold instead.
Reluctantly, Harry grabbed the toy, though he kept glaring at Mom with a pouty expression. His cries softened into sniffles, and eventually, he rested his head against her chest, still fuming but comforted by her closeness.
“We’ll get through this, big boy,” Mom whispered, stroking his back.
