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Parenting Different KidsNo two kids are the same and parenting different kids should be different. This can be a challenge though. Every time I look back at my childhood with my elder sister, I see the clear differences we have and the different needs we had and still do have. Even same sex kids are totally different and should be treated as separate individuals. Create a separate time every day to spend with each child the way that suits them and their needs.
Most parents struggle to treat their twins and other multiples differently. Your kids may be identical twins but they are still individuals, treat them likewise. This should not be confused with favouritism. Different kinds of treatment must not be unequal. Love your kids equally but play with each different games of each child’s interest; ask relevant questions to each; know their unique areas of vulnerability; etc.
In the case of parenting biological and adopted or fostered kids this becomes even more tricky. Always remember that an adopted child is also your own child. Contrary to popular belief, most parents pay even more attention to their adopted kids than their own. This may create siblings’ rivalry and dependency syndrome for the adopted kids. Treat all your kids equally.
In my case and many other parents’, you may have kids with different needs. When you have a child living with a disability and some without learn to provide the different needs for your kids. It doesn’t mean that a child without a disability needs you any less. Always give equal attention to your kids, and that will strengthen their bond as siblings. Parenting different kids can only be done with caution to not give too much to one child who demands more whilst neglecting the rest.
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