Parenting: Adding to your family

March 24, 2011

I'm from a family of 10, so my motto is always "Go for it"! The Facebook friend had reservations because she wasn't sure how to give the older two children the attention they need. It's funny that she should write this post on the same day I was off enjoying a little one on one time with my three year old. I took him to Adventure Aquarium. It was one of the best times I've shared with him. So often, I'm complaining about the behavior of my three year old, but the truth is, he's struggling for attention and acts out to gain it. When it's just the two of us, he's happy as a clam.

But, I don't think it's our job as parents to give our children every single thing they need. It's ok for the children to need a bit of attention and to learn to be patient and share. I've recently realized my son is lacking in some of the qualities that my older girls learned the hard way!

I do try hard to give each child some one on one attention when possible. We take turns coloring or reading together on a Saturday. Sometimes, as a special treat, I'll pick one of the girls up early from school and take them out for ice cream.

I think giving your children a sibling can be a great gift if it works for you. I believe strongly in "no regrets". Before too long, those decisions will be made for us, so we're better off thinking them through now and deciding if it's right to add to our families.

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