I stumbled across this picture and it resonated rather deeply with me. Even more so today when I've been an emotional mess for some fucking reason. Well to be more honest, I know why, now, but that's not what this one is about now is it?
No this is about littles and littles with guarded hearts. A little with a guarded heart is one who has been hurt,often deeply, who more often then not requires more from their Caregiver(s) . I'm using the term Caregivers simply out of courtesy to those who are Mommies as well as Daddies,same reason I am choosing to use the term little as opposed to babygirl or babyboy.
1.They are strong because they can take care of themselves,but their heart is soft.
There are alot of littles who wear their heart on thier sleeve,but there are some who dont. More often then not these littles are labeled as brats or looked down upon as not being "little enough". Just because a little is a little rough around the edges or makes you work to get close to them does not mean they arent a little.Typically they are harder or bratty as a form of self preservation but once you get in there is no end to the love that little will exude.Its been my experience that the hardest path taken is often the most rewarding.
2.Dont just tell them they are beautiful,show them.
Ive known alot of littles,rare is the one who thinks highly of themselves. Besides who wouldnt want to hear how you see them? They may argue or deny it,but I promise its something that boosts them higher even at times when they dont realize they need it.
3.They need lots of reassurance and nurturing.
Littles for the most part have alot of self doubt. We tend to think the worst,to the point of fear at times and often to our own detriment. Our little brains are our worst enemy.Reassuring your little of how much they mean to you,how much you love them or even that you missed them when you've been apart can change those fears and worries into giggles. There really isn't such a thing as too much when it comes to handling a little who's been hurt before.
4.Never let them feel like they are alone.
This one seems pretty self explanatory. Obviously as grown people with lives to lead you wont be with your little 24-7,but little messages or random check ins when they aren't expected can get rid of a case of the loneliness very quickly.
5.They are very perceptive and if they think there is something wrong with their Caregiver they may assume it is their fault and they will isolate because they think they have done wrong.
Littles seem to be able to show more empathy then any others Ive ever known. They can sense something is wrong with someone they care for even without seeing them or at times even hearing them.If something is wrong,spend a few minutes reassuring your little that it isn't their fault,that they have done nothing wrong. Something as simple as a few words while cuddling or giving them a hug with a few minutes of your time. Who's knows it might do both of you some good.
6.Know when its time for punishment ,but also when its time for cuddles and love.
Littles love cuddles and love from their caregivers! I know, shock right? However there is a need for punishment as well at times. It seems to be common among those in the lifestyle to forget the punishment part of being a caregiver. You are responsible for that little. You ,as a caregiver, are supposed to provide that structure and discipline that they need. Without it, they often are left to feel lost and alone,which is scary as hell for any little.
7.They should know how much they are loved and how much they are needed.They should feel like a priority for you.
So,this one I reworded. As a caregiver you should ALWAYS make sure your little knows that they are loved and needed by you. They should feel like a priority for you. I don't agree with the way the picture words it simply due to reality . I know ,despite me being a little, I wont come first and foremost for my caregiver. There are kids,bills,jobs,other adult shit that takes precedence over me,but that would be where the reassurance and some of the other points would come in. A caregiver can make their little feel like they are a priority in their life.The point isn't that the little should be first,but the little should never be left to feel like an after thought.
These are just my thoughts on this stuff. Doesn't mean I'm right or that it would apply to all,its all based off what applies to me.
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