Hi D.:
I was raised with 6 other siblings. 4 sisters and 2 brothers.Mom and dad had us all stair-stepped. We were all 2 years apart or less.Yipers! Yeah, they were nuts! I married and had two sons.I loved growing up in a large family, but I also Learned,that it can be absolute madness at times,and I didn't think i was up to the task.: ) We weren't home schooled,mom wasn't that domesticated! lol However,the older kids were given alot of responsibilities. We were asked to help entertain the younger ones and help tend to some of their care. From my experience,I learned that spending each and everyday with your siblings, can truely get on your nerves.I compare it to the possible situation where you'd be forced to work 24/7 with your spouse. Ohhh I'm sure there are some, that could cope with that.However,the Majority,would go crazy!I see that you give them plenty to do, to keep their social skills up.You obviously know, how vital that is for their healthy developement.I know, as a mother, I relied on my sons to help keep each other preocupied,or entertained,while I tended to regular household chores.Its important for the boys to have a close relationship.I truely believe, that when they spend,pretty much 24/7 together, that they are going to get irritated with each other and tire of playing the same ole song. My question here,is do either of the boys spend any time away with friends their age?If they do, is it enough? I don't think the little one really is saying...."I hate you" as much as hes saying" "I hate being with you" It sounds like he could use some time apart from his brother.I'm not condoning his behaviour,but each time he is reprimanded or punished,for being outspoken, is cause to resent being with him more. At five, he has a real problem in trying to express what his true feelings are. He doesn't know the proper words to use,he merely knows he feels agitated.I wish you the very best D.. J.