Unnatural Dislike

We are fortunate to have a local nature museum in Charlotte that is wonderful for kids (and adults). Well, wonderful for some kids. Ben hated this place from the very first time we set foot there more than 6 years ago. Each time, I convince myself that he will love the animals and exhibits. It is an easy place for me to take all three boys by myself and watch them safely.

Usually he is in his walker and he spends the entire time at the doors trying to get out. Since he was in his chair on this visit, he cried, yelled and whined to make his position known. This photo serves as a reminder to avoid the nature museum when Ben is in the group.

The next week I took Ben to another kid museum and he loved it. He sat at the make-believe restaurant table, made several rounds at the fire truck and seemed happy to be a part of the fun. I cannot figure out why one place is fun and the other not. Ben likes the zoo so I don't think it is the animals. Perhaps it is a smell, noise or something else I do not feel or notice.

I am reminded of a story my aunt told me several years ago. One of her sons cried every time he rode in the car. She said it was awful. He could not talk yet so she did not know what was wrong. Finally when he was old enough to explain the problem, he told her he was dizzy and nauseous from being car sick.

Having the words to communicate can make all the difference.

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