a younger brother in workings

It is such a joy to raise a second child despite the enormous increase in work. Things are more relaxed in term of his own physical competence. Sashi has more independence and freedom without my incessant worrying about his safety that surrounded Nico most of his toddlerhood. Sasha can fix his breakfast and find snacks without asking, figures out what to do without whining and can spend many long minutes playing his own games. They both can deal with morning (if they want!) without us waking up and attending to the breakfast ritual over the weekends.

Sashi's independence of spirit and general whereabouts brings much relief but comes at a price. All this diminished attention brings less of interaction and systematic loss of communication when we either focus on the more verbal and demanding older brother or find relief in his independence.

Being 4+ years younger brings him less dependence on his older brother which brings less interaction and less play but more harmony and less competition. I feel like his personality is developing regardless of his brother's influence, at least so far.

I wonder how their relationship will be in the future but one is sure, it is better when I am not around. Which is something I need to understand at some point but lesson is being learnt and I leave the play alone regardless of circumstances.

One of the curious things I noticed is that when I am not around (with sitter or my mom) they play fabulously well, it is only when I am around the drama starts. damn kids. I am coming to the conclusion that me having a full time job might be the best parenting strategy for years to come.