Sibling Rivals

Sibling relationship are important in building character and problem solving skils. These relationship allow your children to practice negotiations, compromises and expressions that they willuse as they get older in the real world. As parents we often want to 'rescue' our children from uncomfortable situations. However it is importantr that parents give their children the opportunity and room to resolve conflict by themselves. It is therefore all right for your children to bicker if it is not excessive or results in aggressive towards one another. If your children seem to bicker frequently and are not able to devise a solution from it (i.e "you can have my teddy for 5 minutes and then it's my turn with it") then you may step in during this resolution stage. You can guide them by saying "it is nice to share. you can play together" or "Let's swop toys". Should your children follow your advice then praise is a great way to teach your children what to do in the future. Say something like this "Mummy is so proud that you two are playing nicely" or "I knew my kids were great at sharing."