Whining, whining, whining...

My oldest (SGK) and I have had some tough moments the past month or so.  It very well could be related to her adjusting to a new baby brother who currently needs a lot of physical attention and care.  On top of that, perhaps she hears my #2 (AHK) being almost 21 months old, getting a lot of praise and claps for taking off with vocabulary and starting to sing songs.  After all, two years ago she was the only kid on the block!  Now she has to share attention from mom, dad, grandparents, caregivers... 


So we've had our share of meltdowns and whining.  I admit I've not been the most cheery mom... my own threshold and tolerance lowered due to lack of sleep.  However, it is a poor excuse and I need to pep talk myself into a better attitude and approach to dealing with my precious little drama queen.


While searching the web out of curiosity on this topic.. this article by Lil Hawkins really made me laugh out loud.  Her child is nine years old.. SGK is only 3 going on 4... but wouldn't hurt to give it a try...  hug her when she whines.


Here are some things I've been trying to do but can make more effort to do more...

• spend one on one quality time with her
• give her special jobs to help with baby care ( for example she loves helping with feeds when I'm at work) 
• praise/reward her for good behavior

At the end of the day, it just seems like the girl needs to feel loved... don't we all?