Denise, so sorry about your little helper! My 3 year old (back in 1975) saw how much I loved my, then, brand new Bernina sewing machine. So, in order to be helpful, he took a rag and a spray bottle of water to shine it up. I about had a cow when I discovered what his little helping hands were doing. I didn't yell at him, however, because I could see he really was trying to help Mommy. And, he still loves sewing machines to this day. Whew... glad I could hold my tongue.
Sorry about your machine troubles. I know someone is going to be able to help you in this shop. :-D