Sibling Rivalry…Make it Stop!

If you have two or more children, this post is sure to pique your interest.

Do your kids argue and fight for what seems like no good reason? One minute they’re getting along swimmingly and the next, it’s an all-out battle.

Call it sibling rivalry, and most parents can expect their children to have their “moments.” When your children go at it, here’s what you can do to keep the peace, at least until the next blow out!

Call for a “Time Out”

When mayhem erupts, send the kids to opposite sides of the house or in different corners of the room until they cool down. After 15 or so minutes, they’ll forget what they were upset about in the first place.

Establish a “Code Word”

When things start to get heated, the kids need to call out a pre-chosen code word, so you’ll come in and break it up between them. It’s better to hear the word than the kids screaming!

Offer Incentives for Good Behavior

The child who doesn’t start things up with their sibling should be rewarded. Same goes for the child who tries to mend things. When you praise the kids, they’ll want to continue to make you proud.

Find Common Ground

Is there a type of music the kids enjoy or a movie or TV show they can watch together? Perhaps you can all bake cookies or plant flowers. Any activity that is engaging and fun will help keep them from feuding.

Set an Example

Do you have any siblings of your own? Show your kids that getting along is much better than dueling it out. Teach them they have a friend for life in their sibling(s).

How do you handle sibling rivalry in your household? Please share your helpful tips with the AMC community in the comments section.

For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blog.

By: Melissa A. Kay