Monday, March 14, 2011

Sibling Love: Getting your Two Year Old to Love your Newborn


I thought the day would never come.  For those of you that read my earlier posts since my second L was born, you know that it was not an easy start.  But, hey, what is easy about two under two.  Not only was I an emotional roller coaster, hanging on dearly to my two year old who I had become so in love with that not even my new little bundle of joy could compete with, but N wanted nothing to do with his younger brother.

It wasn't as bad as it could have been.  N wasn't beating, kicking, or throwing anything at his brother, it was more of just a tasteful disdain;  he just didn't care.  No matter how many times the other toddlers we know would drool over this cute little baby and want to grab and kiss him, N had no desire.  I think he thought if he just ignored him we would get rid of him.

The hardest parts were when I would hold L and N would politely say and point, "put L here," and point to his bouncy or swing.  Not only didn't he want to get close to his brother, he didn't want me getting closer either.

Let me not scare all of you who are expecting a second.  These early months flew by.  It was tough at first but I can honestly now say that N is in love with his baby brother.  It started slowly with N just whispering sweet nothings to his brother and now he will do it anywhere we go.  He loves looking at his brother, singing to him, taking pictures with him, and showing him his latest toys.  I can't explain the joy that this brings me.  Everyone told me that this would be the best feeling, but it was just something that I had to experience for myself.  All it took was some patience.  I prayed for the day when it would finally happen, and it did.

Last week my husband was giving L a bath, (yes he finally realized it was easier than giving our 2 year old his, so this is now my duty) and L started splashing around and giggling non stop.  Older brother walked in and couldn't contain himself.  He started bursting out laughing and staring at his brother enjoying his splash in the tub.  Hubby and I were just in awe.  This was the first actual brotherly connection between the two.  Where they were each sharing a giggle with each other and it was just so sweet.  It makes all those earlier months worth it, and I can't wait for more

5 comments:

  1. Hi! Found your blog on Hedgetoad Kids. I'm now a follower! Would love a follow back at http://www.toeuropewithkids.com/
    Thanks!

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  2. So glad it finally clicked :) My son was instant with his little sister, though you would never know it now; those two are like oil and water.
    Very happy for you!

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  3. Ahhh... The joys of motherhood. Thanks for sharing.

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  4. ours are about the same age difference! (Brayden will be 2 next month). I agree, those first months are hard, but now that the boys are getting along and really starting to interact, it's so much fun!

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  5. All of my kids are about 1.5 years apart, and while they aren't the best of friends now, they can get along well and even appreciate each other. I'm glad that things are falling into place for you!

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