Child 1 vs. Child 2

Setting the Scene : Legoland

Scenario : Standing in front of an exhibit with an extremely exciting push-the-button-and-a-crane-moves activity.  A six-year old with a mohawk stands a little too close to our youngest (16 months) while he is pressing the precious button.  The mohawk-child is clearly signalling — “Get out of here, I want to press that button”.

Likely Firstborn response: Abdication of coveted activity spot.  Running away and crying to mother about the injustice.  Leading to further crying about former abdication of coveted spot and missed opportunities

Second born response: Stormy glare at mohawk child.  Not much response — clearly an insufficient reaction from the offender.  One-handed toddler push to get some personal space.  Still not a sufficient advantage gained.  Toddler turns to 6-year old … steps forward and pushes mohawk with two hands — hard.  Mohawk steps backwards 2 steps, clearly accepting toddler’s authority.  Toddler returns to his button pushing.