Originally Posted by
joedish
It's called common decency as a human being. As an adult, if you are seated next to any child, even if not your own, it is just simple decency to make coo-ing noises for a really little baby or small toddler, or to play peek-a-boo. for toddlers, talking to them or reading books to them goes a long way to help make the flight enjoyable for everyone on board. It also gives the flustered mother or father a much needed rest.
Don't act all high and mighty as if interacting with a child will kill you. Smile and be nice and friendly. It's the least you can do.
"...as if interacting with a child will kill you"? Exaggerate much?
Within the context of this thread it's more about blackmail and entitlement than common decency: "If 17-B refuses to switch, I hope he/she doesn't mind reading "Llama Llama Red Pajama" 87 times."
Don't act all high and mighty when somebody who ends up sitting next to a child isn't interested in becoming its carer and entertainment for the duration of the flight. That's the chance the OP is taking.