A little bit of sibling rivalry is completely normal. In fact, some experts even suggest that some degree or another of sibling rivalry is a necessary and sometimes beneficial part of a family’s life. However, when sibling rivalry is persistent or severe, parents can often find that they are having a hard time dealing with sibling rivalry. Fortunately, there are things that parents can do to help deal with sibling rivalry.

One of the most important things that parents can do when dealing with sibling rivalry is to pay attention to their childrens’ conflicts. This doesnt mean that it is necessary to intervene in every squabble that your children may have; often, you can learn quite a bit about your childrens sibling rivalry just by listening. During those times when it is necessary for a parent to intervene, a parent can often help each of the siblings to understand better what the other sibling is feeling and thinking. In addition, should the siblings become physically rough or violent with one another, parents can be ready to respond. It is important, however, for the parent not to take sides when dealing with sibling rivalry, however.

Another thing that you can do when dealing with sibling rivalry is to help your children develop their own conflict resolution skills. Help them understand how to compromise. Help them learn how to show respect to one another. Help them to learn how to listen for one anothers’ needs and wants, and help them to learn how to express their own needs and wants. Demonstrate to them that you believe them to be capable of resolving their own conflicts, as well.

Finally, when dealing with sibling rivalry, try to avoid lecturing and yelling. While these things might temporarily unit their children against a common “enemy,” in the long term it is going to do much less good than trying to be patient and understanding. Instead acting in a way that explains correct behavior will tend to lead to more success when dealing with sibling rivalry.

Posted in Parenting

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