DEAR MISS MANNERS: When I take my sons to the pediatrician or call to make an appointment, the receptionist or nurse always calls me Mom. I give them my name, but they never use it, and continue to call me Mom.

I love being a mom, don’t get me wrong. And I love my sons. But this drives me bananas. I’m not these people’s mom!

Am I overreacting? If so, I’ll let it go. I do realize that it probably makes life easier for the staff, and I hope I’m not being rude by correcting them. Maybe some people like being called Mom.

But there’s something about it that feels a little condescending, like I’m not a separate person from my children.

GENTLE READER: “Which mother? I’m Mrs. Starwood.” (Or “Dr. Starwood,” if it applies and you wish to pull rank.)

If that does not work — or is forgotten the very next visit — Miss Manners permits you to be annoyed. But then she recommends you let it go. For the purposes of this visit, you are an extension of the child.

And while these professionals could make a bit more effort, you do not want to squabble with your child’s caregivers.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.