Theo is a big brother, part II

I've read quite a few parenting articles about helping the older child cope when a new baby is born. They all say that the older one's behavior may change so dramatically that he may be practially unrecognizable ("What happened to my kid?")

Well, they're not kidding. Theo loves his baby sister and treats her so gently. However, he sure does give his mom and dad a hard time! He throws tantrums much more than he ever did before. The worst is bedtime; we are guaranteed a tantrum every night. Just before Ruby was born (and before we moved to the new house) he would willingly go to his toddler bed and sleep.

The good news is that we have seen some improvement, some of which is attributable to our actions. When I took a step back, I realized that I had said "No" to him so many more times since Ruby's arrival. I couldn't help it, man, I was tired. I've made a conscious effort to speak positively to him, and I think it's taking effect. Also, Dad and I spend a lot of time affirming him and snuggling him.

Despite these difficulties, Theo has still managed to keep his wonderful appetite; the champ loves to eat fish and "blockfish" (what he calls veggie meat.) He is also sort of learning to color within the lines, and he sings in tune about a third of the time.