If you’re a parent of multiple children, you’ve probably experienced that confusing tug between your feelings for each one. While society insists on the idea that you shouldn’t have a favorite child, the truth is, you might just have one. Let’s face it: As a mom, you’re expected to declare your love for all your kids equally. If pressed, you might say you love them equally but in different ways. Beyond that, let’s change the subject—just like with money, politics, and religion, this is a taboo topic.
But internal feelings aren’t bound by societal norms, and yes, I do have a favorite. With six kids aged 2 to 13, my favorite is simply the one who’s being the least annoying at any given moment. It can be the daughter who unexpectedly helps her baby sister, the son with the charming, fluttering eyelashes asking for a cuddle, or the teenager who surprises me with a funny school story instead of retreating to her room.
Yet, this status can shift in an instant. That same helpful daughter might soon unleash a loud fart in her brother’s face, igniting a chaotic scene just when I thought the day couldn’t get any worse. The charming son might, in a moment of brutal honesty, inform me that my breath smells like a dumpster fire during our snuggle time. It’s a real treat! And when I ask the teenager to pick up her backpack, only to be met with eye rolls and a suggestion to “calm down,” it’s clear she’s not vying for the favorite title.
I love them all dearly, but let’s be real—I also cherish peace. I adore moments of effortless kindness and wish they wouldn’t insist on saying “Mom” before every sentence. Seriously, kid, I’m right here! You don’t need to keep reminding me.
So, I’ve devised a little game in my head: Whoever is making life easier and more enjoyable at any moment claims the coveted “Five Minute Golden Child Award.” It’s a fleeting honor, but they rotate through it daily without even realizing it, effectively dodging the ugly threat of sibling rivalry. When one of them shyly asks, “Am I your favorite, Mom?” I respond honestly, “Not at this exact moment, but there’s still time.”
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In summary, the chaotic life of parenting often leads to fluctuating favorites among siblings, driven by behavior and interaction. Embracing the humor in these moments can help maintain peace and a sense of fun in the household.