I was the youngest of two children, and never felt left out as a middle child. But I’ve been watching my middle child and have noticed a tendency for her to get lost in the attention shuffle. David is easier to talk with; baby is the most demanding.
Actually, I think most of the time it’s not being the middle child that is the problem, but in her limited understanding compared to David. I am in the habit of pointing out items of interest to David; not too long ago Bethel was an oblivious infant, and wouldn’t have the interest in or ability to find what I’m pointing out (like an oryx as we drive through the missile range, or a rainbow against the mountains). Now she’s got a sharp eye, but I still forget.
I’ve also noticed a tendency to give spiritual instruction to David more than Bethel. Yes, I know we shouldn’t underestimate our children’s ability to comprehend, but I’m so committed to age-appropriate Bible instruction that I’m bothered realizing I haven’t been doing so well putting my ideas into practice.
Leave a Reply