Jealousy in a child

Agastya has been absolutely naughty the past week. He does not understand why but does notice I and Monica are spending way too much of our time devoted to Lila.

I do not know what else to call it; to me this seems like jealousy.

I feel sorry for him. Monica, who would spend every minute of her time with him, finds herself clutching on to Lila and feeding her on demand. Obviously, as they are both kids, we can only devote our attention to just one at a time.

Now comes the problem; the proportion of time allocation between him and Lila are heavily lopsided in favour of Lila. The little devil knows this and "demands attention" from us. How does he do it ? By throwing things here and there, by eating talcum powder and ciggies - YES PPL, you think he is cute doing so but it is a nightmare.

When we were in Melbourne, there wasn't a time when a stern NO from me did not have its effect. Agastya always listened to me; what I say is FINAL. He did take liberty with Monica to do as he liked as she does not have a bad bone to condition him. BUT now, having stayed away from him for 4 months or so, my NO has virtually no effect; except that, he turns to look at me just once to see if I am a threat.

He rubbishes all commands and control from Monica, his grand parents, maids - I have told Monica to take prompt action when he errs from his line. After all, it is NOT his fault. He is a baby, 2.5 years old and I and Monica are fully responsible for what and who he is.

But, I am not worried. He is too young to understand this. But I do not want him to get cool with it and repeat things as if no one minds. If he needs the odd smack, I told Monica she has to mentally prepare herself to do that.

But you know how cute he is ? He, a baby himself, calls LILA a baby !! He can say LILA perfectly. He comes and gives her a kiss every now and then. He wants to touch her; I am a bit afraid she is too soft at the moment. So, I hold his hands when he touches her. He showers her with flying kisses.