BIG Brother in Training

Think what you will, but Charlie now has a baby doll so that he can practice how to be a good and gentle big brother. The doll is actually one of my old Cabbage Patch dolls from way back when. Grandma had suggested bringing it over a while back, but I was not so sure about giving my son a doll. Actually, I was more concerned about what Nick would think. I ran the idea by Daddy to see what he thought. He wasn't trilled, but he said that my mom could bring it over for him. Later that week, I read an article about how to prepare your toddler for the arrival of a sibling, and it suggested using a baby doll. So, I decided to introduce Charlie to the doll.

Well, let's just say it was love at first sight. I've mentioned before that Charlie adores babies, and it was no different for the doll. Within the first 24 hours, he had to sleep with the doll and even chose to bring it to the store with us instead of Lovey (gasp). I started to get a little worried at that point, but the initial obsession has died down. Now, he will see the baby and give it a quick hug and kiss or take it with him somewhere, but most of the day that baby doll goes untouched.

I have to say it has been very reassuring to watch him with the baby doll. He really does try to be gentle and just wants to love on it. I pray that the same will be true when his little brother arrives. Charlie really is a little lover. He has always enjoyed cuddling more than most of his little buddies, and he has become very generous with his hugs and kisses. I hope that we can make him feel secure enough when the baby is born that he will continue to shower all of us with love.

I snapped this picture the other morning. While I was preparing breakfast, I looked into the family room to see Charlie hugging the baby doll and rubbing its head sweetly. What a wonderful big brother in training!