Training your older ones to help with your younger ones has so many benefits. First of all, I think it really promotes a re pour among your kids. They have a spirit of really caring for the physical and emotional needs of the younger ones. This creates a bond. My kids really love each other (Oh, yes! They do have their moments…trust me). I can tell you that when Corban sees Kenzie after a nap or a little time away he runs to her for a hug. I know that there is mostly a spirit of sharing and care. There are just attachments when someone cares for you. Second of all, it frees you up to do other things around the house. If Abby is feeding Corban while I’m doing something with Kenzie or doing the dishes, it is extremely helpful. I definitely will still have loads of moments to care for my son and create that special bond myself, but to have them fill in the gaps where needed is great. The third thing I think it does is train them to be caregivers and providers for their own children someday. I’m sure there are other benefits, but those are the three that stand out to me. I’ve tried to train them to do it right…showing that giving smaller bites is important and not as messy. I show them how to scrape off his face with a spoon so that his face stays cleaner. That’s in the eating realm. Abby is capable of changing Kenzie’s (not poopy) diapers for quite some time. One night my husband and I were feeling lazy and asked Abby to put Kenzie to bed. She was able to brush her teeth, change her diaper, read her a book and pray for her. We were both shocked by the whole experience and breathed a sigh of relief.
Sweet post! I am looking forward to teaching my boys (41/2 and 3) a few tips to help me with our new baby coming in a few weeks.I have a feeling they are going to be great helpers!