728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Fiction/Opinion/Essays › Lessons from a Locked Car

Lessons from a Locked Car

By Alene S. Sen

Pages:  1  2  3  

With my keys, wallet and phone locked inside with Mitchell, I found myself helpless in this catch-22 situation. I had to leave the car to call for help, but I couldn't leave my child behind either. I was grateful to the couple who eventually pulled into the parking space next to mine. They saw my predicament and immediately offered to phone a towing company. Their support allowed me to stay with Mitchell and helped me to remain calm.

Mitchell was oblivious to the situation. He was laughing, steering, shifting and pushing an array of buttons. I asked him several times to pull up the locking mechanism, but since it required more strength and motor function than a 16-month-old possessed, his fingers slipped with each attempt.

When concerned onlookers began to huddle around the car, Mitchell knew something was wrong and wanted to be let out, but since it was not possible, his cries evolved into screams. In a panicked state, he began jumping vigorously which quickly caused him to vomit. It pained me to watch him, and I forced back the tears that were welling in my eyes, because I knew it would make the situation worse. The fact of not being able to touch my son and give him the comfort he needed was a terrifying feeling, especially since we were in the same place at the same time. I repeatedly tried to verbally comfort him by assuring him that I loved him and that I wasnt leaving. It was o use, and his screams grew more piercing.

Pages:  1  2  3