Do you find yourself expecting too much from your older child?

JoannaJes

I've been noticing this a lot more in myself lately. Even though DS is only 2 1/2, I think sometimes I expect too much from him, because compared to DD, he can do so much more. Does this make sense?

I think basically I lose perspective sometimes that I really have two babies in a sense, rather than a baby and an older child. Anyone else ever feel this way?

Irisheyes1247

This is something I am very concerned about once LO 2 comes. It wasn't really the plan to have them so close and I wanted to have a little more time for C to jut be the baby. I think it is something I am a little more sensitive to because I am the oldest and I know it means a little more responsibility (or maybe I just was the more responsible/helpful child?).

ctbride08

I kind of look at it as the opposite - it helped me realize that she wasnt a baby any more and opened my eyes to all the things she is capable of.

Telyco

Yeah I actually don't push #1 as much as I should...like, it's easier to just diaper both of them instead of really working with DS to potty train and still have DD in diapers. So we're just going to train them at the same time.

12bailey18

I could have written this post. I swear sometimes I'm just barking orders at DS. I notice when we're trying to get out the door and I've got the carrier and the bag and I'm trying to get DS to hurry up because he's walking too slow. Hello- he's 20 months, of course he's going to take his time and look at everything....LOL. I'm only 6 weeks in to 2 under 2 so I'm really trying to be better about not expecting too much from DS, at least not in a negative way...if that makes sense.

kcisthebombdotcom

ctbride08:

I kind of look at it as the opposite - it helped me realize that she wasnt a baby any more and opened my eyes to all the things she is capable of.

I agree with this.

I've taught my son to help out in a lot of ways-he will throw away trash, give the baby a botle, help me unload the dishwasher, throw dirty clothes in the laundry chute, etc. He loves helping me out with anything I need and I think it contributes to him behaving well as opposed to acting out for attention.

angelproberts

KC_13:

ctbride08:

I kind of look at it as the opposite - it helped me realize that she wasnt a baby any more and opened my eyes to all the things she is capable of.

I agree with this.

I've taught my son to help out in a lot of ways-he will throw away trash, give the baby a botle, help me unload the dishwasher, throw dirty clothes in the laundry chute, etc. He loves helping me out with anything I need and I think it contributes to him behaving well as opposed to acting out for attention.

All of this but I still tend to forget. She understands so much but can't express as much. I recently had to check myself about this.

CaitlinJ22

just recently I have given DS more things to do. I keep him involved to keep him out of trouble and he enjoys the verbal rewards when I say he did a great job. I dont expect him to do a lot, he can put his shoes on, and throw things in the hamper and trAsh. I dont look at him as a baby, but I also dont look at DD as a baby...she is a walking, talking, running, tantrum throwing little sister I expect my kids to help out....even DD helps in her own way....but ulitimately its my job to get it all done (when DH is gone especially).