Pickle Power: How One Dad’s Snack Choice Became an Adorable Family Tradition
Meet Sheldon Robyck, the dad who took the phrase “dinner and a show” to a whole new level with a pickle! In a heartwarming story featured by People Magazine, Sheldon and his toddler son, Cooper, have cultivated a daily ritual that revolves around this briny snack. When Sheldon gets home from work, he doesn’t just switch into ‘dad mode’ like a superhero shedding a cape; he dives straight into a pickle-powered bonding session. What began as a practical snack choice quickly morphed into a sweet tradition in their household.
Cooper, now 2½ years old, was just an 18-month-old when this taste adventure started. The first pickle was such a hit that Cooper affectionately dubbed them “kickles” — a name that is now practically legendary in their kitchen! As Janie Robyck, Cooper’s mom, hilariously notes, skipping the pickle would trigger major toddler tantrums worthy of a soap opera scene. It’s a classic case of involuntary classical conditioning, where Cooper’s emotional well-being becomes tied to the mere presence of a pickle after Dad comes home. Think of it as the cutest case of Pavlovian response ever — “Dad comes home, pickle is served, happiness ensues!”
Janie recently resurfaced a video of their pickle tradition on TikTok, and it exploded! The post racked up over 3.5 million views this October, delighting users who shared their own quirky family traditions. TikTokers can’t get enough of the wholesome vibe, with comments reminiscing about their childhood snack routines. Picture Cooper, years from now, showing up with a stash of pickles when his friends come over — just too much adorableness to handle!
Janie’s TikTok has evolved into a creative outlet, amid the ups and downs of raising two kids, including her newborn son with a rare genetic disorder. The pickle phenomenon helped her create a community where she shares familial joy, challenges, and education.
As for the future? Janie is keeping that fridge stocked with Grillo’s pickles because this tradition isn’t going anywhere any time soon. It’s pickle love at its finest — proving that sometimes, the simplest of things can create extraordinary family moments.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, The Scottish Sun
