Since Sam has become a part of our family, it seems harder for find individualized one-on-one time for the boys. Well...it isn't always hard with Sam because often he is awake during some of James' nap. However, the times James can get undivided attention (while Sam happens to be napping, riding bikes with Daddy, or running errands with one parent or the other), you can tell he just cherishes that time. James is getting to the age that he appreciates having time just for him, and I can't blame him at all especially since often Sam demands attention or requires more assistance.
So today I took James on a lunch date with Mommy and left Sam behind with our aunt. Technically this was a play date with our moms group, but the point was that James and Mommy would be spending the time together without having Sam interrupt. Although only two other moms and their little ones ended up joining us, it was nice to visit and have the kids interact. Not only did James get some special time along with mini hamburgers and french fries, but I was able to relax and enjoy the time because the restaurant was practically empty, and I didn't have a baby crying in my ear. It made it less stressful, and I know James had fun.
It is important for every child to get some separate individual attention, and my goal is to make a bigger effort to make that happen for my boys...especially as they get older. My husband and I have already talked about each of us taking one boy out to do something so they can have the attention they deserve...at least while they are young enough to want to hang out with us. However, I am sure that even when they are older, they won't mind going go-cart racing with Dad or something along those lines. I feel special one-on-one time helps create bonds and hopefully keeps lines of communication open as children get older and life gets more complicated.
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