You nailed it with the Highlights magazine and the fish tank—those were the big “perks” back in my day. I honestly think cartoons are a huge step up. I used to dread the dentist, and I’m still not a fan of all those noises. It’s funny how something as simple as a show can totally change the vibe for kids. Makes me wonder why they don’t offer distractions for us grownups, too... I’d take a little “Cheers” marathon over staring at the ceiling any day.
Honestly, I’d love to have anything to watch besides those ceiling tiles and the weird light in my face. I get what you mean—cartoons totally change the whole mood for kids, but why do adults get stuck with nothing? Has anyone actually had a dentist offer headphones or a show? I’d settle for a podcast or even some music during those longer appointments. Wonder if it’d make the whole braces tightening thing less awkward...