The other day we were picking the boys up from daycare. As usual when we got there Owen and Brandon came running over to greet us. Owen yelled “daddy” as he jumped into my arms and I squeezed him for a hug while I picked him up. He was excited about his day and was telling me all about it when “they” came over.
They being 3 older boys who thought it was funny to run up to Owen while I was holding him and start calling him “baby”. “Hey Baby!”, “Baby!” blah blah blah. Hmm real cool kids to run up pack like and pick on a younger kid by calling him names. How smart of an idea is that, can’t they see that an adult is there? Wait thats right they are only 4/5 ish which is a good thing for them because my mind is racing and all I can think about is knocking them over and yelling at them to quit calling my son names and stop acting like babies themselves. Hmm they are getting to me, time for a deep breath think fast. I quickly ask them their names and then let them know that no this is not baby, whoever that is, this is Owen. I ask them if they are just talking silly and they laugh because they know they are. Of course kids being kids I doubt they realize how mean, hurtful, abusive, and belittleing these words can be, at least I doubt it at this age. They are being silly and this is somewhat expected for their age group, just like a 2 year old will bite another kid. Not apporpriate but expected.
We have a long talk with both Owen and Brandon on the ride home and explain that this type of behaviour is not appropriate. It is mean, hurtful, and cowardly. In some ways I think this is a good thing to happen to Owen. Hopefully it will help him be more aware how it feels to be picked on and perhaps he will be less likely to repeat this kind of action towards others. At least that is what I am hoping because it is not cool to pick on others even though that seems to be a natural thing kids do until they “grow up” and realize how silly it actually is.
Of course we know Owen is not a baby, he is a wonderful child who has a huge heart and looks after his brother, he uses his manners and is respectful of others. He has a wild imagination and is very thoughtful of mommy and daddy. He must be a big boy because we all know that babies do not share and Owen loves to share with his brother even if his brother never shares back. A sprinkled doughnut no less, what a great big brother he is and we are so proud of that!
When it came time for bed that night there were extra hugs given, probably more for me than Owen.
Way to go Sean, I think you handle this one perfectly! I would have done what you were thinking! LOL
If only hey!