Many people ask me "How are you able to be the favorite aunt?" It is hard work. I have 14.5 nieces and nephews. I don't live near all of them. Then, what do I do? Great question-I am unable to afford birthday presents and gifts every year. I don't believe in buying children's affection. I call them monthly. For the younger children, it is just so that they recognize my voice. I rarely understand the ramblings of a 2 year old, but who cares. For the older children, I ask them about school, what they did for the day, anything they will talk about. Sometimes, they are in the mood to chat and others they are not. I don't get upset. When I am around them, I spend time with them. Others-babysit-I DON'T. I take them to movies, museums, the park, a walk, bike riding, the library, etc... Sometimes, it is one-on-one time and others times, I will have two or three of them. I don't do anything special. I include them in my life, because that's all they want and I want. (2 for 1 special)
I am also very careful about disciplining them. If the parent is around-they do it (I just point it out). If I am the only adult around and they get sassy, (first-talk to parents about their discpline strategies for that child), I don't put up with it. Respect is important everywhere. I set clear expectations and consequences before the adventure. All of my nieces and nephews know the rules of spending time with me: No crying, whining, teasing, and fighting!
3 comments:
You sound just like my favorite aunt!
You sure do have it down!-- impressive! I'm serious about what I said on the phone yesterday!--- You BETTER keep me updated. Updated means information shared ALONG THE WAY... not just when there is a final result!
Being the favorite aunt of so many nieces and nephews isn't easy :] I'll keep you in my prayers--to find a job and figure out what your supposed to be doing.
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