Sibling rivalry is natural, and it is expected in every family with more than one child. However, sometimes things get too serious and parents have to deal with the problem. In fact, the sooner parents handle the problem, the better.
Here are some simple ways to deal with sibling fighting:
Never Point at Just One
It takes two to tango! Never hold only one child responsible for a problem. Accusing just one, even if it is his/her fault fuels more fury. Doing so will give the other kid a reason to call names and bully the child in question. Therefore, handle the problem by disciplining both of them together. Set up rules that will keep them both in check. For example, if either misbehaves, everyone goes to bed early. Be clear that both will be held accountable, it doesn't matter whose fault it was.
Get a Bickering Table
If your kids bicker about everything throughout the day, make a bickering table. Schedule at least 30 minutes a day for them to sit and bicker about their issues with one another. Soon they begin to feel silly about looking for excuses to fight. They will start avoiding reasons to bicker soon enough. Eventually, the bickering will end, and the bickering table won't be needed.
Stop Refereeing
Becoming a referee is the worst mistake parents make. When siblings fight, both want their parent's support. The support means that the kid receiving the parent's favor is right, while the other is wrong. Never judge who is right or wrong! Simply end the argument by neutrally enforcing your authority. Be firm and imposing when you say.There will be no fighting in my house.
Sharing is Love
Teach the kids that they love one another because they are family. They have to look out for one another and share things. As parents, it is your duty to teach your kids how to share. If one wants to play video games while the other wants to watch TV, make them do a little of both. Likewise, if one gets some extra candy, encourage that child to share it with the other evenly. Make sure there is equality in every aspect of life, no matter how little it may seem.
Subdue Jealousy
Envy has been part of the human race since Cain and Abel. If your children display jealousy, don't give too much thought to it. Making it a big deal is a mistake parents make. Instead, make it seem like the most unimportant problem. If kids see that this attracts their parent's attention, they make it a habit. Divert their attention from the jealousy they feel. Encourage them about good characteristics they have. Tell them that they have to treat one another well because they are family.These are some basic approaches that help parents deal with sibling rivalry.
Mike has 2 children, who love fighting. After few months of experimenting, Mike has discovered some great tips to limit this issue. Although Mike loves blogging, he spends most of his time selling boys toys and especially the Lego Ninjago toys.
