Dear question asker,
From your statements, it is evident that you are experiencing a profound sense of exhaustion, powerlessness, resentment, and dissatisfaction. It appears that you are the sole individual grappling with these challenges.
I believe we can address the issues you have raised and offer some alternative perspectives.
It is evident that the aforementioned experiences have occurred subsequent to the birth of the second child. Consequently, it can be surmised that a series of changes in the eldest child are inextricably linked to the arrival of the second child.
Consequently, the crux of the matter lies in the relationship between the eldest child and the second child. It is plausible that this problem has been brewing for some time, perhaps even before the birth of the second child four months ago.
What has the elder child experienced?
The older child's resistance to the younger child is often the result of experiencing two distinct emotions simultaneously. On the one hand, the older child is filled with curiosity about their future life, yet they are also overwhelmed with anxiety and apprehension due to the inherent uncertainty of the future. On the other hand, the older child is uncertain about the extent to which the younger child will alter their life, and they are also concerned about their ability to fulfill the role of a sister.
The deeper concern is that the elder child's perception is that their parents' love will be redirected towards the younger sibling. In light of this, it would be beneficial to consider the following questions.
It is pertinent to inquire whether the elder child had the right to be informed during the decision-making process regarding the addition of a second child to the family. Furthermore, it is essential to ascertain whether the elder child was informed of the prospective developments that would ensue as a consequence of this decision.
It is important to allow your child to express negative emotions and to facilitate their release. Have you helped your older child to process and release any negative emotions they may have experienced?
It would be beneficial to ascertain whether an effort has been made to comprehend the expectations of the eldest child. Similarly, it would be advantageous to determine whether the objections raised by the eldest child have been perceived as hostility.
It would be beneficial to ascertain whether the older child was isolated before or after the birth of the younger child. For example, was the older child sent to live with elderly relatives?
It is possible that this phase has already elapsed, rendering it impossible to provide assistance. Nevertheless, this phase serves to identify the point of origin for the subsequent developments.
In the event of the elder child exhibiting regression, what course of action should be taken?
In general, the changes observed in the eldest child following the birth of a second child can be classified into two main categories: emotional changes and regressive behaviors. The former encompasses a range of manifestations, including increased grumpiness, introversion, reduced verbal communication, and unstable emotional states.
Regressive behaviors include bedwetting, a desire for breastfeeding, and an unwillingness to sleep in a separate bed. They also include older children displaying foul language, declining grades, and aggressive behavior. The following section will examine these behaviors in greater detail.
The initial question to be addressed is that of why children regress.
Let us first examine the emotional changes that occur in the eldest child. The birth of a second child results in a sudden disruption of their lives, and as parents, they are likely to experience a high level of stress and exhaustion.
Therefore, parents will unconsciously hope that the eldest child will behave better, become more sensible, take care of herself, and not cause any more trouble. Additionally, they may even hope that she will be able to lend a hand. The eldest child will pick up on these expectations and demands immediately. She will sense that her parents want something from her, but at this time she will not feel loved.
A common characteristic of children who lack love is emotional instability, which manifests as a tendency to seek love through destructive behavior. The eldest child, in particular, may resort to such behavior as a means of gaining attention, perceiving even criticism as a form of parental attention.
This is why she displays a proclivity for anger, a tendency to find fault with circumstances, and a proclivity for emotional distress over matters that are relatively inconsequential.
Additionally, the eldest child may engage in regressive behaviors such as breastfeeding. For younger children, particularly those who have recently turned three, they may not yet possess the cognitive capacity to contemplate the changes in their lives.
It is evident that the older child is aware of the implications of a younger sibling's arrival. Therefore, the desire to resume breastfeeding is not a mere imitation or competition for attention.
In contrast, they may experience envy regarding the close bond that breastfeeding provides between the infant and mother. For the eldest child, breastfeeding represents a potential avenue for reestablishing an intimate relationship with their mother.
Such behaviors may also manifest in a regressive manner, as evidenced by bedwetting and reluctance to sleep in a separate bed.
From the perspective of human evolution, Taobao's behavior can be explained by the psychological mechanisms of "fight" and "flight," which are survival advantages. Consequently, when Taobao encounters a significant change or threat, such as the arrival of Erbao, he is compelled to consider these survival options.
For some older children with a considerable amount of energy, responding in an aggressive manner is a natural instinct. This can manifest as tantrums directed at their parents, the release of pent-up anger, or even physical aggression towards other children or the use of profanity.
Another part of the eldest child will respond by engaging in self-directed conflict. This manifests as heightened levels of distress, sensitivity, and a sense of inadequacy, accompanied by a diminished sense of competence in various domains.
It is also the case that some older siblings may choose to disengage from the situation, foregoing competition with their younger siblings for the attention of their parents. In such instances, they may instead seek attachment to other figures, such as grandparents, who are responsible for their care.
It is similarly conceivable, however, that he will become emotionally isolated and cease to engage with the external world.
Secondly, it is crucial for parents to be mindful of and dedicate time to their children when they exhibit regression.
In the event of regressive behavior exhibited by one's eldest child, it is of paramount importance for parents to identify the underlying cause, assist the child in releasing internal pressure, and provide them with ample attention and companionship. The following recommendations may prove beneficial:
It is important to accept and allow for regressive behaviors in children. When an older child engages in behaviors such as wetting the bed, expressing a desire to breastfeed, sleeping in close proximity, seeking physical affection, or requesting to be fed, it is crucial to respond with acceptance and a positive demeanor.
In the event of bedwetting, it is recommended to change the sheets and inform the child that this was a common occurrence during the mother's own childhood. If the child expresses a desire to breastfeed, it is advised to allow him to do so briefly, as this may help to soothe him.
In conclusion, it is important to relax and allow the child to return to his previous state of mind. Additionally, it may be beneficial to reassure the child that the mother's affection is not in any way diminished, and that he is still a priority in her life.
It is important to note that despite the presence of a younger child, the older child will always be loved by their mother. The older child is the first child that the mother fell in love with in this world.
It is important to take your older child back to their babyhood. If your younger child is the primary focus of your attention throughout the day, and if your older child is frequently taken from you to be fed or comforted when they cry, your older child may develop the perception that your mother's love is directed primarily towards your younger child.
It is therefore recommended that mothers facilitate their children's recall of their own childhood, thereby enabling them to appreciate that, at the time of their birth, their mothers also provided them with care and attention. This may be achieved through the presentation of photographic and video material documenting the birth process, the display of personal items such as a hairbrush used during labour and a 100-day photograph, and the recounting of amusing anecdotes from the child's early years.
It is important to allocate time for the eldest child to spend with you, regardless of how occupied you may be with the second child.
One may engage in a brief excursion downstairs, visit the supermarket, play ball, or even engage in games that are frivolous and appealing to the child. These activities do not require significant time, approximately 10 to 20 minutes per day, and will effectively replenish the child's energy.
It is important to note that the time spent alone with your child should be dedicated to engaging in activities with your older child. Activities such as watching television or playing video games are not conducive to the desired outcome and should be avoided.
In conclusion, a few recommended mini-games are presented.
The age difference between the two infants is not significant. If the immediate issue is resolved, it may also provide parents with more time and resources to devote to their child as they grow older. It is recommended that two double games, suitable for infants, be played.
Towel Toss: Each child is provided with one end of a rectangular towel, on which a small ball is placed. The children engage in a collaborative effort to roll the ball back and forth on the towel without allowing it to fall. Additionally, they may utilize the towel to transport the ball from the initial position to the final destination within a bucket.
This activity requires the infant to demonstrate proficiency in upper body control and to learn to cooperate with others. The use of a towel to transport the small balls from the starting point to the bucket at the end is also an option.
The objective of the game, entitled "Who Can Stick the Most," is to determine which child can adhere the greatest number of post-it notes to their body within a one-minute time frame. The game requires only a modest investment in props, as each child is provided with a book of post-it notes. The instructions are as follows:
"Let's race to see who can stick the most post-it notes on their body in one minute."
Once the post-it notes have been affixed to the body, the following game can be initiated: toss and fly. The objective is to have the greatest number of post-it notes in the air simultaneously for one minute. The child who achieves this will be the winner. It is evident that observing the two babies moving in unison will be a highly enjoyable experience for the child.
Following this series of explorations, you may have formed a hypothesis.
These are some of my insights. I have provided an extensive account of my thoughts and observations, and it is my hope that I can be of assistance to you during this challenging period.
It is my sincere hope that all will proceed well, that the two children will flourish, and that you will continue to improve.
The world and I extend our affectionate regard to you.
Comments
I can understand how challenging this time must be for you and Daobao. It seems like she's feeling a bit overshadowed by the arrival of Erbao. Maybe we could try to set aside special oneonone time with Daobao, doing activities that she loves, to help her feel valued and secure.
Daobao might be expressing her feelings in the only way she knows how, through crying and acting out. At this age, children can't always communicate their emotions verbally. We could try teaching her simple ways to express her feelings, like using gestures or pictures, which might help reduce her frustration.
It's really tough when your child is upset, and it's affecting your patience. But hitting or shouting can make things worse. Perhaps we can explore some calming techniques for both of you, such as deep breathing or a quiet activity, when tensions rise.
The loss of hair could indeed be stressrelated. Have you considered talking to a pediatric psychologist? They can provide professional advice on how to handle Daobao's emotional needs and maybe offer some strategies to cope with the transition.
It sounds like Daobao is trying to seek comfort in behaviors from an earlier stage, like wanting to breastfeed again. This regression is common when a new sibling arrives. We can gently reassure her that she's still loved while encouraging her to embrace her own unique place in the family.