A perfectly orchestrated backyard party took an ugly turn as the bounce house emptied all 15 little friends who, joined by twice as many adults, gathered around to watch the 5-year-old open a mountain of gifts. At that moment, the birthday girl melted into a puddle of tears.
Little Emily’s embarrassed parents threatened punishment if she didn’t “stop right now!” which only made things worse. She ran into the house and straight to her room, slamming the door.
