There is actually one child I like, a 5-year-old whom I’ll call Anna. In fact, I spoke about her in a previous post: my friend’s child who is demanding and self-centered.
Ay carumba, is that girl a pistol! But for some reason, she and I have always had a connection. Perhaps it is because her mother and I were so close when Anna was born. Perhaps it is because she was one of the rare children about whom I could honestly say, “Oh, what a pretty baby.” Or perhaps it is because she is exceptionally intelligent. When she was between 2 and 3 years old, I recall being able to have a unexpectedly rational conversation with her. As she has grown and her communication skills have increased, I have found that she and I have many common interests such as reptiles, cats, insects, and anything science. On several occasions, I have been in stores that sell educational toys, and I always find things that I know Anna and I would love -- a terrarium in which to cultivate carnivorous plants, an ant farm, a kit for growing crystals.
Recently my friend noted in her facebook status that she was taking pictures of Anna’s preschool artwork. I commented, “Are you going to post them for us?” What? Did I just type that? Did I just express a genuine interest in some kid’s preschool artwork? Why, yes, I did. And when the work was posted, I looked through the album and made comments. “Tell Anna that I enjoyed looking at her pictures,” I added. (This gives me some hope that if my siblings ever have children, I can at least be a decent aunt. I have often worried about that, and I dread the day that my brother or sister calls me with the news.)
Even so, as much as I enjoy my occasional visits with Anna and express an interest in her life, I surely would not want to be her mother! Bless my friend for her patience.
I actually enjoy the "aunt role" myself. I beleive one can say I am the weird, funny and crazy aunt. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI am not afraid of being childish, and sometimes I might discover and learn new things together with children too. I used to be working in quite some kindergardens, and I enjoy(ed) this type of work a lot. I am not the type of person to just stand watching the children play, I like to jump into games as well as playing freely together with them. I of course might have my bad days or headaches where I prefer abstaining from any playing or too much activity, but when I am fully myself, I love to take part in "fun activities". ;-)
Perhaps this is some of the reasons for why a lot of people might wonder why I have chosen to not wanting to having any children of my own, since I don't mind interacting with children. But there is a huge difference between taking care of other people's children and to be having children of your own. So as I said earlier; Being an aunt is not so bad. You chose how much you wish to interact with your nephews/nieces, as well as you can easily do much of the same as what grandparents does; Spoil them lots! ;-)(or treat them the way you feel the most comfortable)