Final answer:
The medical receptionist's approach of asking the mother how her child is doing represents engaging in age-appropriate communication, which is tailored to make the child feel comfortable and included.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a medical receptionist greets a 5-year-old patient by asking his mother, "And how is little José today?", she is engaging in age-appropriate communication. This type of greeting is tailored to the developmental level of the child, often making them feel more comfortable and included in the conversation. It also can promote a warm and friendly environment. The approach is sensitive to the needs and perceptions of a child, recognizing that children may respond more positively when they are addressed in a manner that acknowledges their presence and stage of life. It's also a way to involve the parent in the interaction, which is an important aspect of pediatric care. However, it is essential to maintain a balance and to ensure that cultural sensitivity is considered, as perceptions and norms regarding communication with children can vary among different cultures.