Becoming an Instant Mother

August 20, 2011 10:47am CST
.....is so hard and difficult than delivering a baby(though haven't done it). I've never been married yet I become an instant mother of my nephews who are both pre-teens ages 12 and 14 whose mother had gone astray from her marriage, while her husband who is my brother is an OFW, the reason that I am left to care for his kids. They are close to me, even calling me "Nanay" ( a local dialect for mother)but it is not a guarantee that we would not clashed just like any mother and son relationship. There are times they would be so sweet to me and at other times, they would quarrel at me because of my house rules which they are greatly opposed.Oftentimes, we argue over their use of the computer due to their online games. Extra difficult for me to manage is the younger one who was diagnosed by a behaviorist developmentalist pediatrician as smart, intelligent ADHD.
6 responses
@devideddi (1435)
• United States
20 Aug 11
Its a great thing that you are doing! Remember the part in the bible that says if any one cares for a little one such as this he is taking care of me. My advice to you would be to stay firm with your rules and carry through with any disciplinary actions. Kids need rules and guidance and they will respect you for it. They will push you but know that you are doing the right thing. Just as important as the rules and discipline are the hugs and encouragement. Always make sure you tell them that no matter what they do ...or you do, that you love them very much. (and so do their parents) Remember going through adolescence is hard enough and they are going through it with parent abandonment issues along side. Teach them to say their prayers and pray with them and for them. Also I know how you feel, my daughter is 11 and she always wants on my laptop because the house computer is so slow. Best of wishes to you!
22 Aug 11
Thanks devidedi, i have instilled in their young minds how important is to put God first in everything that they will do because one is nothing if one doesn't have God in his life.Before going to bed, upon waking up and even before leaving home for school, they have to pray. And it has gotten already in their system that I no longer have to remind them or else, i would be like a radio to them;)
• United States
20 Aug 11
I'm so in awe of what you're undertaking, it's going to be difficult but one of the most rewarding things you've done in your life! For that age I think it's important to be clear on boundaries, what is okay and what isn't, so they know what the rules are and the consequences for breaking them. With everything changing so much in their lives they may resist you but it's important to be consistent. Constant reassurance that you're there for them, love them and the family you have may be different but it's still real and them most important thing. Structure and routines are good for anyone but especially for those with ADHD. Have a consistent daily routine and a posted schedule for them to follow and it will help them ease into this new environment. The list can include things they need to do every day, a calendar with events coming up, milestones like birthdays and holidays, etc. Limits should be in place for things like computer games, TV, etc. because its so easy for an entire day to be wasted away with things like that. A good motivator is to remember to talk about the rewards, not just what they need to do. Examples: If this job is done we can do this fun thing or let them pick from a list of fun things you can do together. It gives them something to look forward to and helps keep them motivated. Good luck with everything!
20 Aug 11
Your inspiring suggestions amkat are all noted. You guys have encouraged me to be the kind of parent substitute my nephews may be grateful in later life. I will do all those you have suggested. Thank you very much.
@dawnald (85135)
• Shingle Springs, California
30 Sep 11
That's just normal for kids their age though. I'm sure they are very fond of you.
@r3jcorp (1382)
• Philippines
21 Aug 11
Becoming an Instant Mother is a difficult situation specially that you are not a Mother in a real sense of the word. What you are doing is a noble task, you're nephews should understand that they are very lucky to have you. Maybe when they got older, they would... I just pray that You'll have all the patience you need to those kids and that you'll continue to be strong for them. Just please, always makes them remember that they still have their parents and I hope they will not develop anger to them. I salute you for what you are doing, take care!
@daud4ms (218)
• United Arab Emirates
21 Aug 11
this time whatever you do to take care of kids, will remain in their minds forever, as good or bad memory (based on how it ends up). This is a great responsibility, but can be easily carried out, as kids are hungry for Love and affection.
21 Aug 11
It is bless with instant mother with two children, although not married yet,time management is important for their online games, as long as they had done their homework. Let them think that you are their older friend that advises them and not ordering them instead.