My happy, outgoing son suddenly became fearful of kindergarten. Every morning, he would cling to me, crying, “Please don’t make me go!” I told myself it was just a phase—until the day he whispered, “I don’t like eating there.”
That’s when I knew. Something was very wrong.
The next day, I arrived unannounced at lunchtime. Through the window, I saw a scene that made my heart stop.
A teacher was forcing food into Janosch’s mouth, her voice harsh. “Eat it! Now!” He was crying, his little hands pushing the spoon away as he gagged.
I didn’t wait. I threw open the door and ran to him. “What do you think you’re doing?” I demanded.
The teacher looked stunned. “This is a private area,” she said defensively.
“Not when you’re treating children like this!” I shot back, holding Janosch close.
We walked out that day and never returned. Some things are more important than routines—like protecting your child’s trust.
