claudia

I babysat some kids last night and when one was getting too clingy I felt a bit uncomfortable - I'm not very maternal.

What I would like to know is, would I be like this with my own kids or would it come naturally to be more affectionate?

HappyMomma

For me, it's easier with my own.

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The quickest way for a parent to get a child's attention is to sit down and look comfortable.
~Lane Olinghouse

Music-dad

I was never a huggy/kissy kind of guy with others' kids...I have a nephew who, when he was young, was always hugging people. I couldn't stand it.

But, I hug and kiss my DD every single chance I get, and I really enjoy just cuddling with her on the couch watching a movie.

Nikita

I used to babysit as a teenager and I did not have any affection for the children I took care of. Don't get me wrong, I kept them safe, played with them all that, but it was a routine, a job, not because I loved them.

I now have two children of my own and they are my world. I hate having to leave them. I shower them with love and hugs and kisses. I play with them because it's fun. It's very different with your own children. When you lay eyes on them for the first time, it's instantaneous and unconditional.

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My two precious boys.

Trina

TOTALLY different with your own kids!

Before kids I baby-sat often and was a teacher (PreK, K and Elem.). I was affectionate and nurturing, etc. but it's still a totally different ball game with your own kids.

Teresa

I think it's different with everyone. I'm very affectionate and loving with ALL children, and always have been.

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Wife to Barry
Mother to Brian,Adrienne and Amy
Christianity is not a religion like most people think. Christianity is a life of imitating Jesus.

Trina

I totally agree with you Teresa, but the bond with my own kids is just a tad bit more special. I also have to say that even though I have always liked kids, once I became a mother myself, I love and appreciate them all the more.

Amber

Ok, at the risk of sounding like a total wierdo and hateful person, I can't stand when other people's kids cling on me.

I love when mine do (most of the time, anyway, unless I'm busy) and I don't mind when my family's kids do. But I don't like strangers kids on me. Not even to sit on my lap. I'm not sure why, it just bothers me.

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Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail

Music-dad

Don't feel bad, I'm totally with ya on that one.

it's like "get it off me...get it off!!!".....flick.

Trina

It's not for everyone. I used to teach in a preschool/daycare and had other people's kids clinging to me all the time. Not a problem, except for the little boy who kept grabbing my breasts.