Shannon's behavior

Shannon is becoming somewhat "difficult" these days. She had her moods, ranging to stubborn screaming girl to adorable loving angel. She wants things her way and is completely uncompromising and occasionally says that nobody loves her.

But according to her teachers in school, she is the life of the classroom. Apparently she is the "big sister" (maybe because she is the oldest in class - being born in January) that goes around making sure that everyone is ok. She is caring, friendly and helpful.

So on one hand she is mischievous and naughty at home. On the other, she is the teacher's pet in school.

I think that she feels left out at home. With an older brother, who seems to get more praise and attention and a younger sister whom everyone is cooing over. She no longer feels like the cutie-pie that everyone was going ga-ga over, no longer the princess of the house. Whereas in school, she is among her peers where everyone is an equal and she doesn't have to fight for attention. She has already worked hard through the year to gain the respect of her classmates and the admiration of her teachers. In school, everyone loves her while at home she gets nothing but scolding.

Shanny, Shanny, I understand how you feel. As a 3 year old girl, coming to grips with social hierarchy both at home and school can be both challenging and exciting. We do love you, just as much as Nigel and Amber, and don't let anyone tell you differently. Don't grow up too fast! You'll always be Daddy's first little girl!