Holy jealousy.

[lauranicole91]

So I started watching my friend's 4 year old today. It was horrible but it wasn't pleasant either, not that I expected it to be a piece of cake or anything.

Anytime I had to give Peyton snacks, help her with something, go change her diaper, etc. he threw a fit. He'd run and hide in the corner or kitchen or wherever and make "humph" noises. When I'd ask what was wrong he'd say I wasn't paying attention to him and that he doesn't like my baby and wants her to go away or he wanted to go home to grandpa.

Everything was peachy while she was napping though. Of course.

And his mom didn't bring any fucking toys with him so he was stuck playing with Peyton's toys. Which of course caught her attention to them and she'd have to play with what he had. He would presume to smack her hands and or push her away. I tried my beat to stay calm and correct him in other ways than lunging at the boy. He got sort of better by the end but I think that's because I was removing Pey from the situation before it happened.

Oh and his mom didn't pack him enough food. He was still hungry through out his time there so I have him other snacks

Vent over. Time for me to go work now.

Ps I missed you guys today!! Glad this is only for a week.

[tuck]

Oh no! Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

[lauranicole91]

Yeah I think he was testing my limits today.

[Deleted]

He will push until he can't push anymore. Set some hard limits in the AM tomorrow and stick to them. For example:

No pouting while I am tending to the baby.
Do not hit the baby.
Do use kind words.

Etc.

[ruby412]

I agree with Ouiser - it's important to be firm, but kind and be very clear with your expectations. I'm sure it will get better as he adjusts to the situation. Also, let his mom know he needs to bring toys and extra snacks. She is already paying you very little - it is not your responsibility to provide those things.

Keep reminding yourself that the money you are doing this for will help your family! Eye on the prize.

[wildcatprincess]

They'll get used to each other, it took Riley a few months to accept Sam

[lauranicole91]

Ouiser I agree that's the best approach. Only problem is I won't be with him tomorrow morning. DH will. I mean obviously DH can give him the new rules/boundaries but who knows whether he will apply it to when he is with me or just with DH.

I'm sure things will get better. Mainly just venting.

Oh and I did let his mom know of te hitting, pushing, and lack of toys and snacks.

Oh and ftr all the times he pushed or hit her it never even made Pey cry or anything. But still.

[ruby412]

Laura, it's okay if your H has slightly different rules for what works for him when he's on duty. It's like we explain to our students at school - some things are okay to do at home, but not okay at school. Try to be on the same page, but he'll learn pretty quickly what your expectations are if you are consistent about it. Good luck. I hope it gets better.