Acting Quote by P. J. O'Rourke
“Getting down on all fours and imitating a rhinoceros stops babies from crying. (Put an empty cigarette pack on your nose for a horn and make loud "snort" noises.) I don't know why parents don't do this more often. Usually it makes the kid laugh. Sometimes it sends him into shock. Either way it quiets him down. If you're a parent, acting like a rhino has another advantage. Keep it up until the kid is a teenager and he definitely won't have his friends hanging around your house all the time.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Parenting Humor, The Atlantic, 2005
Using playful, exaggerated animal imitation to calm infants, suggesting humor can be a powerful soothing tool.
In simple terms: Acting like a rhino can calm a crying baby.
Key Takeaway
Try lighthearted distraction to soothe children.
Themes
parenting
humor
child development
communication
Mood
playful
practical
Type
parenting
advice
When to use this quote
- infant care
- stress relief
- family bonding
Key Concepts
play therapy
emotional regulation
bonding
Questions to Reflect On
- When is humor appropriate in caregiving?
- How to balance play with safety?
A Different Perspective
May not work for all children; could be misinterpreted.
