I know I've been posting about contests a lot recently, so let's get back to my life. Are you still with me?
How in the heck do I stop Anya from pushing Ally out of her way to get to me? She's hoarding The Mom! Last night, every time Ally even looked at me, Anya would run to me and climb on me. If Ally was already on my lap, Anya pushed her out of the way. Ally is 2 and a half years older, but she doesn't know how to deal with that. She gets in trouble for pushing back. If she doesn't push back and I have to stop what I'm doing with Ally to discipline Anya and "get her in trouble" or else, it sends Ally the message that Anya can push without getting in trouble. But! When I do it, Anya gets what she wants anyway, which is to put the attention on her instead of Ally. No matter how quickly I do it, she gets vindication. When Rob is there, he tries to help out,, but this is happening a lot lately and it's driving me mad. Most of the time, both kids end up getting in trouble. Anya for starting it, and Ally for retaliating or sometimes taking preemptive action. Help!
Keep hold of Ally and ignore Anya while pushing her away. Keep Ally on your hip and put Anya in her room then spend 5 quality minutes alone with Ally so she knows Anya's behaviour is unacceptable and that she gets quality time with you for not pushing back. This may be difficult with toddler screaming from the bedroom.
Alternately put them both on your knee and tell them how lucky you are to have two gorgeous girls all to yourself.
This too shall pass.
Posted by: arizaphale | January 30, 2008 at 02:30 PM
where was arizapahle when I was raising 2 little girls who were always competing for The Mom??? My little one was almost as big as the oldest so when she shoved she made her sister MOVE! Actually, I figured the oldest had had The Mom for 3 years with no interference and didn't have to fight for attention so I usually let the baby (who was just so cute!) win and made time during baby's naptime for the 3 year old. Easier when I was home all day with my babies though. They didn't have to compete for the after work/before bedtime. Each had special time with mom when the other was at nap/preschool/playing with friends/being good. Makes a difference when you have to work.
Posted by: Jan Williams | January 30, 2008 at 10:56 PM