Mom looks up from a little blue sock, noticing Lily and Max glancing guiltily at each other. She sets the laundry basket aside, her expression gentle but serious.
"Alright, you two," she begins, a playful smile tugging at her lips, "I saw what you were doing just now. Can we talk about why we don’t eat our boogers?"
Lily[/@ch_2] hugs a plush bear and Max fiddles with a toy car. Their faces are a mix of embarrassment and intrigue, eager to hear their mother’s explanation.]
"But Mom, why not? It’s just a little bit, and nobody sees," Lily says, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Yeah, and it doesn’t taste bad," Max adds, glancing at Lily for support.
Mom[/@ch_1] kneels down to their level, her eyes kind and patient. Outside, birds chirp in the distance, and the faint smell of fresh laundry lingers in the air.]
"Well, our noses are like little air filters," Mom explains, reaching over to tap Max's nose gently. "They catch dust, germs, and all sorts of things that could make us sick. When you eat your boogers, you’re putting all those yucky germs back into your body."
Lily[/@ch_2] and Max scrunch their noses in distaste, imagining the invisible germs. The scene is filled with a mix of disgust and fascination as the siblings absorb this new information.]
"Ew! Germs go in my mouth?" Lily asks, her eyes wide.
"Exactly," Mom replies, nodding. "And those germs can give you tummy aches or make you sneeze and cough even more. It’s much better to use a tissue and wash your hands."
Lily[/@ch_2] and Max giggle as they grab a box of tissues from the coffee table, pretending to blow their noses with exaggerated sneezes.]
"From now on, I’ll use tissues! No more booger snacks," Max declares, his voice full of mock seriousness.
"Promise, Mom!" Lily chimes in, her laughter infectious.
Mom[/@ch_1] pulls her children into a warm hug. The peaceful evening settles in, filled with comfort and the quiet promise of better habits.]
"I’m proud of you both," Mom says softly, brushing a strand of hair from Lily's forehead. "Thank you for listening and for trying to make healthy choices. Now, let’s wash our hands and get ready for dinner."
