Neither of my children verbally let me know that their dad is their favorite parent, but I can pretty much guess this with all the favoritism towards him. I don’t know what it is about girls and their fathers that just kind of make them gravitate towards them more (or boys with their mothers), but I won’t lie, it makes me a just a little bit sad!
My two-year old, undoubtedly, loves being with her dad a million times more than me. How the heck?! How dare you forsake me! I birthed you! When he’s around, I’m just…. there 🙄. My oldest daughter is pretty much neutral at this point, but in her earlier years, she too was more about her father.
Sometimes, I would tell myself I wasn’t an effective parent. Or maybe I was just boring and not as fun to be around. But as I mature as a mother, I’m learning that this is all quite normal…
Despite my little heartbreak, I now realize that it’s ok for our children to connect with us differently. I know that my girls love me just as much as they love him. I know they appreciate me and I know that they need me. But they also have the right to enjoy the relationship they have with their father, as well. It’s perfectly ok! They may look to us for different things and sometimes, our parenting styles may speak to certain situations. For me, I’m the one they come to for comfort or advice. For dad, they may relate more to him when they need strength or a good laugh. So, Mom’s, don’t be sad that you may not be getting your children’s affection the way you desire. They know you’re there, and in fact, they wouldn’t know what to do without you 😉.
I’m happy that my girls feel safe with their dad, can have fun with him and relate to him. And most of all, I’m happy that he loves them just the same ❤️.
Does your child have a favorite parent? How does this make you feel?
TTYL,
Lexi 💋
