Honey, the children are fighting again!

Sibling rivalry is defined as antagonism between brothers and/or sisters that results in physical fighting, verbal hostility, teasing, or bullying.

Parental resources are limited. There is never enough time in the day to ensure that each child receives the amount of individual time and attention they want and feel they deserve. Results from a recent census poll indicate that 82% of us have at least one sibling. As we all know, sibling rivalry can and often does impact relationships between siblings throughout their lifetime. Do parents play a role in sibling rivalry? The answer is YES, and there are many things parents can do to encourage positive relationships between siblings.

Strategies for reducing or eliminating sibling rivalry include:

1. Do not compare your children with each other.

2. Do not typecast your children.

3. Encourage teamwork.

4. Give attention to positive interactions between siblings.

5. On the flip side, when you find yourself constantly intervening in sibling disputes, it may be because your children have found a way to ensure parental attention!

6. Plan fun family activities

7. Ensure that each child has enough time and space of their own.

8. Do not hold up one child as a role model for the others.

Learn more about this subject by visiting our Community Resource Room and check out our Love and Logic series.