Sibling Rivalry

Well, one of my favourite topics on the radio is sibling rivalry. On this week's show also did a segment on this topic.

Parents are always trying how to figure out how to stop sibling rivalry. Well as far as I know you can't really stop it. As Allison mentioned kids are egocentric and because they are thus they don't naturally share toys or other things. And it is usually the sharing of things that starts the family feud.

As the adult we need to have a number of approaches to this family battle scene. Of course safety is our first concern but if safety is not a factor with the older siblings sometimes it is best to ignore or walk away and let them solve the problem. You may also try to listen to each child's side of the story without passing judgement and assist them in resolving the conflict. (A great opportunity to have children learn conflict resolution skills.)

One of Allison's sayings to a child that is trying to “tattle” on the sibling is: ”Tell me to get you brother/sister out of trouble. Don't tell me to get your sister/brother into trouble.” A wise word which may assist in reducing the need for you to be involved.

Lots of times, we parents just make the conflict worse by jumping in and going on about it. Often kids will move on from the situation.

The fact is siblings have conflict. Try something different next time it erupts.


(Sunday morning at 9 am Pacific time on Village 900 or http://www.village900.com)