Your cart is currently empty!
The Rewards of Listening to Our Needy Kids
I spent the last few weekends buried in work and, let’s be honest, it was a serious drain on my family’s relaxation time. I had crammed in clinic hours to make way for summer adventures, and by Saturday afternoon, I could feel the toll it was taking on both my body and mind. My daughter, Emma, was feeling it too.
When I walked through the door at 1 p.m., I envisioned an excited welcome, but instead, I was greeted by a teary mess. There she was, decked out in her sparkly princess attire, complete with a jeweled tiara and shiny rain boots, wailing on the floor.
“I don’t want to go!” she cried out as I entered.
“Hello there, my little darling,” I thought, suppressing my own frustration. We had a housewarming bash to attend that evening, and she had been expressing her discontent for hours while waiting for me to finish work.
For about 20 minutes, I tried reasoning with her (big mistake), insisting it would be fun and that we’d all be together. But even after finally getting everyone dressed and ready (which felt like an eternity), Emma was still sobbing about her inability to go.
I faced a dilemma. I could either insist on fulfilling my social commitments or I could listen to her heartfelt pleas. Initially, it felt like giving in, but I knew there were times when I needed to stand firm against her protests—like when she craves brownies for dinner or refuses school. This time, however, I sensed a different vibe.
After calming her down, I realized she wasn’t just throwing a tantrum; she was expressing a simple need: “I miss you, and I want to spend time with you.” So, I decided to pivot our plans. My partner, Greg, and I discussed it, ensuring Emma felt in control by practicing some deep breathing. I explained that Greg and I had decided it would be best for him and little sister to attend the party, while Emma and I would have some quality time together. I even offered her a few fun options for our day.
We ended up having a fantastic four hours together—just us. We visited the park, enjoyed a lovely lunch, and snuggled up with books on the porch.
What surprised me most? Instead of feeling like she’d triumphed over me, Emma was the most well-behaved and appreciative toddler during our outing. She spent the evening lost in imaginative play with her dolls, hardly noticing me when I offered to join in. “Uh, Mom, I’m busy with my mermaid friends,” she told me, slightly annoyed.
It was astonishing—by catering to her genuine need for love and attention, I found myself blessed with a joyful day. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, when our children act particularly “needy,” there may be underlying issues we should pay attention to.
Now, I’m not saying you should let your child dictate your every move, nor should you always change your plans when they cry long enough. On the contrary, I’m suggesting we take a deeper look at our kids’ behaviors and the meanings behind their protests. By being attuned to their needs, we can create a happier environment for everyone.
If you’re interested in exploring more on this topic, check out this insightful post on home insemination, or for a comprehensive guide on pregnancy, visit this excellent resource.
In summary, we often underestimate the power of simply being present for our kids. Listening to their needs can transform chaotic moments into beautiful memories.