Peyton
This is a tough age for Peytie. The difference in maturity between he and Parker is at its widest point ever. And really, I think it's the widest point it'll ever be. Because of this, he really misses the relationship that he and Parker used to have. He literally hung on every word that came out of his big brother's mouth... he still does. But Peyton's love for all things lego doesn't match up with Parker's love for learning to play the guitar. Peyton's heart for quality time doesn't match up with Parker's quest to be alone. And it's SO difficult to watch!
Part of the problem is the lack of structure we have (that we're about to get a hold of)... and part of it is my own fault for not having kids over more often. I think if Peyton could hang out with another boy his age once a week or so, it would help a lot. Of course, he also just needs to understand that there will be times when he and Parker like different things... just like he and Mabry. It's just easier to "get" when it's big brother/little sister.
The new church has been a HUGE help. Peyton LOVES his transition class (all 6th graders). They get to take part in worship with the teens, but then go off on their own for the rest of the Sunday night time together. It's allowing him time to be PEYTON... and not Parker's little brother. And it's giving him a chance to meet with other kids his age. Obviously, the more time we spend at Landmark, the better it'll get because he'll move out of the "new kid" stage and into the "full-fledged friend" stage. :)
On a happier note, he is just an obliviously happy child. The one thing that keeps him bouncing back from minor dissapointments at home is his innocence. He truly sees the good in people. He loves in BIG amounts. Considering that Parker stopped willingly hugging me at age six or so, it's amazing to have Peyton want to cuddle on the sofa together at age eleven. He's a great kid. :)
Part of the problem is the lack of structure we have (that we're about to get a hold of)... and part of it is my own fault for not having kids over more often. I think if Peyton could hang out with another boy his age once a week or so, it would help a lot. Of course, he also just needs to understand that there will be times when he and Parker like different things... just like he and Mabry. It's just easier to "get" when it's big brother/little sister.
The new church has been a HUGE help. Peyton LOVES his transition class (all 6th graders). They get to take part in worship with the teens, but then go off on their own for the rest of the Sunday night time together. It's allowing him time to be PEYTON... and not Parker's little brother. And it's giving him a chance to meet with other kids his age. Obviously, the more time we spend at Landmark, the better it'll get because he'll move out of the "new kid" stage and into the "full-fledged friend" stage. :)
On a happier note, he is just an obliviously happy child. The one thing that keeps him bouncing back from minor dissapointments at home is his innocence. He truly sees the good in people. He loves in BIG amounts. Considering that Parker stopped willingly hugging me at age six or so, it's amazing to have Peyton want to cuddle on the sofa together at age eleven. He's a great kid. :)