It's natural that rivalry develops, given the close proximity in which most siblings live. As children vie for attention, try to discover their place in the family, many feel their siblings receive preferential treatment. The results may end in jealousy, teasing, negative attention and competition. Here are a few things parents can do to curb or put a stop to sibling rivalry.
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Difficulty:
Moderately Challenging
Instructions
1
Ignore fighting that focuses on getting your attention. As long as no one is being hurt, let them work it out on their own and they will see their tactics are not working and stop fighting. This will also prevent you from taking sides.
2
Use positive reinforcement to increase desired behaviors and discuss ways they can handle disagreements. Teach your children how to feel empathy for others by having them serve others, including their siblings.
3
Maintain a home environment centered on teamwork. Tell your children as often as possible that you love them and cherish them as individuals.
4
Think about what triggers fighting and try to limit the chances for the siblings to start fighting.
5
Stop siblings from engaging in competitions with each other before a fight begins. Give children consequences instead of punishments and make sure they are a natural result of their behavior.
Tips & Warnings
Always remain calm and do not let the children see that their fighting is getting to you. Avoid having shouting matches of your own.
Tell your children as often as possible that you love them and cherish them as individuals.
If a child is abused, emotionally, physically, mentally or sexually you must always intervene.
