Growing Pains

In the last few weeks Magda has been struggling with her emotions.  Sometimes little things can set her off when she doesn't get her way and it can spiral down into a major league tantrum.  One big point of contention has been her going to her preschool, which closed her old location which means that she has to deal with a new environment.  Two weeks ago she was inconsolable about going; later it turned out that she was coming down with an ear infection, but she still doesn't want to go.  She also tends to overreact to small things that didn't used to be as big of a deal, like skinning a knee or resolving sharing issues with Kayleigh. Kayleigh has been amazingly sweet and supportive, but I don't want her to be suffering from Magda's outbursts, either.

We're starting to think that her (figurative) head butting with us is a subconscious reaction to Simone's role in the family and how it affected our dynamics.  Magda used to be momma's girl and now, since Simone is around all the time, she doesn't really have much opportunity for focused one-on-one time with Jfer.  I've enjoyed the opportunity of being more involved in Magda's daily routine, but she "misses her mom" doing the things with her that Jennifer would primarily do.  Other changes, like having to give up her high chair, stroller, etc. for Simone make the transition harder too.

I don't think she's conscious about Simone's role in all of this.  Magda doesn't express resentment against her and still "loves her sister", which IMO is a good thing, but also the reason why this might have slipped past us.  We'll try to change our schedule so that Magda can have dates with Jennifer where it's just the two of them while Simone and I do things on our own.  Hopefully this will give Magda a better sense of balance and ease her stress.