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The Glass Is Half Empty
Does Being Around Negativity Affect a Toddler?
By Keath Castelloe Low
Michelle Gwin, mother of two girls ages 4 and 6 from Durham, N.C., experienced a different kind of emotional negativity. Gwin's youngest daughter is terminally ill and she often feels worry about not only this daughter, but also her older daughter, Mackenzie, who is around this sadness.
"Mackenzie has been around death since she was 3 years old," Gwin says. "Her sister is dying and she is aware of this. Some can say it is too much stress, too much negativity on such a young child."
What has worked in this family is open, honest communication and warm, nurturing relationships. "Mackenzie is a strong, compassionate, loving child," Gwin says. "I believe all negative events in our lives can be taught as a life lesson, teaching faith and hope to all those who are affected by it."
What is the view from the other side? What about the relative or friend who is targeted for displaying negative behavior?
Eva* from New York says her sister-in-law is always getting after her and trying to "micro-manage" how she interacts. "She thinks everyone should just button up around her 2-year-old," Eva says. "I mean, we can't talk about someone who is too fat or a politician that is corrupt, or say anything sassy or 'adult' around her toddler."
Eva feels frustrated and limited in how she can relate with her nephew. "I agree that wise adults should temper what they say to yong children, but within reason," she says. "I feel like I have to walk on eggshells around this child!" Unfortunately, this has strained the relationship and Eva isn't able to comfortably be around this part of the family.
