Fair Isn't Everyone Getting the Same Thing, Fair is Everyone Getting What They Need to be Succussful

Parents with one child often feel so guilty and torn when they bring home a new baby.  The baby requires lots of attention and has many needs that must be met.  Could you imagine adding up all the time spent caring for a newborn and then trying to give your other child or children that same amount of time so it is fair? 

 

Children have different needs.  One child may need more of your patience, understanding, and attention than another one depending on what is happening in their life. Imagine that you were teaching a group of children how to ride a bike.  Each child received 5 minutes of personal instruction.  Some of the kids got it.  Some of the kids did not but in order to be fair that is all the instruction you will give them. 

 

Does that make any sense?  It is important as parents to not get caught up in making things fair and equal for your children.  Giving kids what they need in order to be successful is the key.

Mary Bartusek, Parent Educator