(no subject)

It's been a very frustrating day for Alex.

First thing this morning, Daddy had a few words with Barney the day care manager. And ever since, Fry has learned a new concept.

It's called Time Out.

Fry had developed the ideal solution to other children invading his personal space, pouncing on him, and generally scaring him - a good smack in the face seemed to do the trick.

But today when he tried that, he found himself being abruptly hoisted up in the air as well as the 'No!' from the nursery staff, and plonked unceremoniously in the corner for what seemed like forever (but was actually only a minute at a time).

After the fifth time, he stays in the corner and evaluates his situation. His world view has been turned upside down. It's almost as bad as that time they rearranged the furniture. No, actually, that was worse. He spent five days trying to put that table back.

There are two logical conclusions. The first one is that his cries for help against the other children have been noticed, and 'Time Out' is a rescue. The second one is that his methods are being objected to, and that 'Time Out' is a punishment.

Unable to work it out, he keeps away from the other children as much as possible.