Let them be Littles

[Redneck-Kitty]

Many littles, myself included need their little space to cope with stress and bad things in life. For every caregiver, enjoy their little space with them. Don’t get frustrated with them .Here’s just a few things to keep them safe in their little space when they’re having a bad day: 
1. If they’re busy coloring or watching cartoons, bring them some chocolate milk and cookies. 
2. If your little is having a really bad day and doesn’t want to get out of bed, then get in bed with them. Some compliments may get her to peek her head over the covers. Let them cling to you as much as they want.
3. Never resort to punishment when a little is suffering from depression. Ask if they’re ready to talk, don’t push the issue. They should know you’re there for them when the time finally does come.
4. Make sure you use their “nicknames” if they want to stay in little space. Only address them as kitten, princess, little boy etc. 
5. Try to get your little outside. Pack a picnic, bring some bubbles, and an outdoors game if they feel up to it. Going outside and getting fresh air can work wonders.
6. Wrap them up in a blanket and carry them around the house. Being taken care of to that extent makes them feel super loved, and reminds them you are always there for support.
 

[ScarletBaby]

I totally agree. I spend all week taking care of others, I just want someone to take care of me when I get home. The cute things that we all imagine, the caring partner who will take care of you, those are what we will respond to the most and feel safest with. It’s unreasonable and unrealistic to ask for these cute, picture perfect moments at all times, but that’s not what we’re asking for. We just want someone who will care enough to know when we just need the Little time and to be taken care of for a little while. I 100% agree with you and this post.

[Mr. Ducky]

Good ideas. Thanks for sharing.

[LittleBunnyCici]

#3 is so critical, for all kinds of mental health issues.  Nothing makes me lose faith in someone's ability to act as my caregiver - and, honestly, distrust them as a person - more than that person trying to "discipline" me because of symptoms I'm suffering through due to my mental health.  It's like, "Sure buddy, give me a second to just tell my brain to stop being damaged.  I've never once thought about that, you've really opened my eyes to a new avenue of recovery that has somehow escaped me my entire life!"

Bitter sarcasm aside, lol, it pains me how often this gets glossed over by CG'ers, both new and old, when they knowingly start relationships with littles & middles that suffer from mental health conditions.  I've got my own 🌟 I N C R E D I B L Y  N U A N C E D🌟 opinions about how selfish people take take advantage of and weaponize the sentiment of "you are responsible for managing your mental health" as a way of deflecting accountability for their own actions and lack of empathy, but even all that aside it absolutely blows my mind that people would get involved in a dynamic like CG/l with a neurodivergent partner and then act like their partner's suffering is personally offensive and disrespectful to them. 🥴

[Daddy4Princess]

Also, be aware that sometimes your little might just want some alone time to work through their feelings.  Daddies, don't take it personally, and littles, don't be afraid to ask for it if that's what you need.  A true Daddy/CG would have no problem giving you alone time if that's what you really need and want.  Sometimes we can be there for our littles by being there in the next room, you know?  We're still there for them if they need us, but are respecting their space.

Edited June 6, 2023 by Daddy4Princess