NEWCASTLE – For the most part, sibling rivalry is a common part of life.
You’ll hear plenty of stories of when brothers and/or sisters collide, even some who go as far as to express hate for their sibling.
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The reality is, rivalry and jealousy happen often enough to be normal.
What you as a parent need to ensure, is that the rivalry does not stretch into adulthood and create a rift between family.
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Here are some of the Internet’s best tips:
Make your children accountable
The Empowering Parents website suggests putting a rule in place, which states everyone goes to bed earlier (or has a privilege revoked), when fighting occurs.
In this way, both siblings learn responsibility for their behaviour.
However, the website also suggests there should be equity in how the behaviour was conducted, and who started it.
Have reasonable expectations of your children
The Child Development Institute cautions parents who make comparisons between children, a habit which will create resentment.
Instead, each sibling should be given his/her own goals and level of expectation.
According to the website, and common sense, each child feels they are unique, and will resent being compared to what another child is gifted at.
Be a fair referee
The Better Health Channel highlights the importance of being an impartial ‘judge’.
One thing which will not help dispel resentment and jealousy, is solving the fight for the siblings, or taking side.
In fact, when to intervene becomes something of an instinct.
Website, Ask Dr Sears expands on this, suggesting parents let children sort out small squabbles, but be prepared to step in if the situation escalates.
Sibling abuse must be stopped immediately.
Blood is thicker than water
Perhaps a cliché in the modern age; one which still rings true.
Siblings will have their arguments and fights, yet parents need to emphasise the importance of family and living in peace.
Help your children learn to depend on one another.
They won’t always see eye to eye, even into adulthood, but with your support and guidance, they can nurture a relationship more precious than most.
