Just a Spoonful of Sugar Helps The Medicine Go Down

I almost never buy M&Ms for my kids. I don't mind the chocolate, but we avoid food coloring whenever we can. But on Monday Zach had his five year check up at the doctor and I knew he would be getting a shot. He was very upset about going, so I decided to do what any good mother would do - bribe him. ;)

I waited until I had him buckled in the car before I mentioned where we were going. Of course he cried, but then I told him that I bought him a tube of mini M&Ms to eat after the appointment. He settled down and then very quietly asked from the backseat, "Mini, or Mickey?"  

He did great at the appointment and was happy to get his treat. He even happily shared with his friends and sister when we got home. When the tube was empty, you'd think he'd let me throw it away, but nope. Both he and Lexi periodically open it, stick their nose in, take a huge sniff, and then sigh with pleasure from the great scent. Yes, it's clear these kids don't get a lot of candy. The lingering smell of chocolate has become their drug. 

The best part is that my bribe worked!  I told Zach he has to go back in six weeks for another shot and he can't wait!  :)