Helping solve sibling rivalry

While there will always be arguments between your children, there are ways you can help minimise conflict and unhealthy competition:

Understand that each child has different needs and interests, and that you need to give them the space and time to nurture these interests – even if it means protecting them from the little hands of a younger sibling
Avoid arguments about sharing and turn-taking by making sure that there are enough blocks cars, dress-ups for everyone to enjoy
You need to spend one-on-one time with every child regularly. Never let your children feel that you don’t have enough time for them
Give each of your children a little space they can call their own
Let each child have his own special items that don’t have to be shared with siblings – this only works, though, if every child in the house understands what is and isn’t to be shared
Make sure that all your children are being catered for.
Never compare your children – and never, ever say ‘Why can’t you be more like your brother?’ because this will only ever lead to resentment
Be sure that everyone in the household understands the house rules and they are equitable. If a rule is broken, insure that the reprimands are equally dealt out
Try to teach your children strategies that will help them to learn how to problem-solve fairly
Be affectionate with all your children, regardless of age and sex

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