I Can't Be the Only One?
My little boy is nearly 16 months old. He's such a happy child, which goes unnoticed by no one! Everyone always comments on how placid and content he is — and that's true the large majority of the time. But recently he has gained a real will power. If he wants to do something, he's doing it. A good quality in some ways, but it can be challenging at times.
However, my worry is — am I reacting correctly? I'm constantly having the same battle in my head. If I give in and do what he wants, am I spoiling him? Is he going to think he can always get his own way? But on the other hand, is he only behaving like this because he can't communicate what he wants? Am I right? Am I wrong? Is there even such a thing as right or wrong?
Toddlers being toddlers, everything goes straight in the mouth. Soil? That looks tasty — let's try it! Am I wrong for not stopping him? If I let him, he'll soon make up his own mind that it's not as tasty as he thinks it looks, surely? Chalk? No problem — let's take a bite. Spits it straight out, cracks on. I leave him to it and figure he won't do it again. Does this count as learning through play?…
I give him a treat as bribery to get him in his car seat. He's in the stage of locking his whole body so he doesn't have to get in the car. I try my best, but I just know that if I give him a biscuit, he'll give in. Stand my ground or an easy life? What would you choose?
Anyway, maybe someone might resonate with some of these? I can't be the only one. Do you think there's a right or wrong when it comes to parenting? There can be so much pressure — and as long as love is at the centre of your family, and your children feel that… then surely you're doing something right?
Having said all this, he's finally sleeping through the night. We're on a two-day streak!! I felt quite emotional, really. A year and a quarter of disrupted sleep might be coming to an end. It feels bittersweet. As much as I've longed for a good night's sleep, I will miss the quiet feeds on the rocking chair. The whole house asleep except me and my mini. Little eyes sparkling up at you with love while you fight to keep yours open. Soothed as they tug the hair out of your scalp, and you fight those silent screams — because that actually really hurt...
That's my rant over for today. I am so happy to be here at the PJ Club and look forward to reading with you.
Contributing Article written by: Annie Navarro
Annie Navarro is the mum behind @littlemanstylez and an official PJ Club fan and contributor, sharing style, ideas and tips on how to mix and match her PJ collection. She loves all things fashion whether its for herself or dressing her little boy. Discover her Instagram profile and get all the latest boy style finds.
