How to Reduce Sibling Rivalry Between Twins

There are many reasons why twins fight or disagree; it may be due to jealousy, lack of attention, competition or just plain boredom. Sibling rivalry between twins is common but can also pose a problem if it gets out of hand. Parents are faced with the challenge of trying to instill harmony when it occurs too often and most times are not quite sure how to resolve the rivalry.

Instructions

1. Give individual time to each twin. Provide undivided attention during that alone time together. When that need for attention and special bonding is fulfilled, they tend to feel happier and have less inclination to fight, argue or tease the other twin to get attention.

2. Avoid comparing the twins. Pointing out one's achievements or talents over the others is taboo. Instead, focus on each individual's strength and build on that to increase their self-esteem and confidence instead of finding faults with their weaknesses.

3. Respect your children. For example, understand that the twins don't always have to share what they have or own. We all have something we are not always ready to share and that's fine. Insisting that he share can cause contention, anger, appears unfair and results in feelings of enmity towards the other sibling.

4. Teach them how to resolve conflict constructively. Give examples, scenarios and role play with them. Let them learn how to deal with conflicts and resolve it. Hopefully, they will be able to solve their conflicts themselves the next time.

5. Be a role model. Resolve conflicts peacefully without hollering, speaking hurtful words or using sarcasm in front of the twins. Children imitate and learn from what they see. They may pick up your negative traits and use it on each other.

6. Emphasize that family harmony is a vital principle and value. Be loving and kind one to another.

7. Be patient with them as they strive to develop their own identity. Make sure they know you are there for them and will support them but not at the expense of family unity.