Parents worry. It is part of the job description.
Matthew requires a lot of time and care, with all the needs of a typical infant plus all of the care his uniquenesses require. Because of this, we worry we short change Alyssa and Jackson. Do they get enough of our time? Attention? Patience?
Probably not, but I’m sure this is a concern of every parent with more than 1 child. I’m equally sure that every family, like ours, has to balance needs and set priorities. For us, what usually happens is one parent is in charge of Matthew care and the other parent is in charge of Alyssa and Jackson. We may not always balance it properly. We may not always give the right amount of attention or have the proper amount of patience, but we are better, more compassionate people because Matthew joined our family.
My Dearest Alyssa, Jackson, & Matthew- We will always try to do better to be the parents you deserve. We love you more than words could ever convey. Love you forever- Mommy & Daddy
This is something that is a struggle, especially when one child has uniqueness. You do the best you can, when you can.
ReplyDeleteObviously the child who needs the most care, gets the most attention. A trip to the grocery store may be where the "healthy" child gets the attention or the car ride. The special morning hug, hand signals, winks...
I worry as well, as our breakdown is about 50%, 25%, 15% and then a measly 10% for each of children and there is nothing I do that seems to change that fact.
So, now that they all can read, I write notes, or bring a small surprise (a pen or stickers) and make a meal especially for them.
Let me know if you need anything - I am always here.