PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – On the scale of life's challenges, parenthood ranks right up there.
And if your family has more than one child, it may feel completely impossible to handle.
Therefore, I searched for words that would give experts peace of mind.
Parenting is an ever-evolving game, and while you may love it, finding the right balance with your kids can be difficult.
Children are like snowflakes in that no two are alike.
“Every child is different, each with their own temperament, their own personality, and their own style,” explained AHN child psychologist Dr. Gary Swanson.
She said some children may respond immediately to instructions or corrections, while others may take it as something you didn't intend.
“Some children will roll things off their back, and some will chew on them or be bothersome. It's important to recognize that,” Dr. Swanson said.
They may isolate themselves to get through the moment, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it does have its limits, Dr. Swanson said.
“I think it's good to go back to when you were a kid and say a little bit later, 'Hey, tell me how you're feeling. How was it? Was anything bothering you?'”
But he said to keep in mind that your brother is watching.
“They need to be mindful that other children also need their parents' attention and that their parents are giving them their attention,” he says.
And when you understand how you need to deal with each child, they will grow to the next stage.
“Parents must always adapt their parenting style to meet the developmental needs of their child,” says Dr. Swanson.
As for spouses, teamwork always makes dreams come true.
He said that in a two-parent household, each parent should have their own style, and one child can be a little more responsive to one child and there's nothing wrong with that.
Dr. Swanson said that neglect aside, most parents are good enough, if not perfect. That alone can make a positive difference in a child's life.
Of course, there are difficult teenage years, he said, which is why it's important to practice good communication with your child early on. That way, your child will feel like they can always talk to you, even during difficult times.
Finally, don't ignore their feelings. Listen with empathy, not criticism.
