To the editor:

Kathleen Christian wrote a letter venting about a trip to the store where she endured a screaming child. I am writing as I assume that she was writing about me and my child, as she very well could have been.

I have a well-behaved toddler. He is cared for at home with a parent. His life is a balance of structure, free time, love and constructive discipline. I do my best to predict his behavior and adjust activities accordingly. However, there are times when we are out that my child will throw a fit.

While I am sure instances exist where truly neglectful parents ignore the needs of their child, mostly parents of screaming children are not neglectful. In fact just the opposite, for instead of giving in to every demand, they are standing their ground in an effort to raise unspoiled children despite the frustrated stares of those around them and the extreme judgment from people like Kathleen Christian.

I have some suggestions for Kathleen. Stores are open 24 hours; one can avoid children by shopping between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Or when faced with a screaming child, offer to help in any number of constructive ways. Or take a deep breath and go on your way with some empathy that mostly parents are doing the best we can and a little more understanding and a lot less complaining would go a long way.

Paige Martin,
Lawrence