Child psychologists have long dismissed the notion of punishing children for sibling rivalry. Siblings often misbehave for attention, either a parent’s undivided attention or more of a parent’s attention than their siblings receive.
A positive reward system accompanied by a reinforcement of the rules is a preferred method. What better way to reward siblings for behaving, than to give them each your undivided time and attention.
Taking Time to Listen
In mild cases of sibling rivalry, sometimes all it takes is getting to the root of the problem. Talk to the kids about what sets off the arguing between them.
Role-playing the Sibling Rivalry
Any parent will tell you that children love to act, whether they admit to it or not. Clever parents can encourage their children to dress up, in their own childrens costumes or in their parents’ clothes to act out their frustrations. To make it more interesting, have them play each other’s role as well as taking a turn playing their own part.
Planning Time Together
Tell your children that if they can go through one day without fighting, you will participate in an activity of their choice that day, no matter how busy you may be. Take suggestions from both and work out a deal to do one or both, while you choose the day.
Planning a Day Together
If they continue the behavior for a few days or more, plan an entire day together, free from work and school. Promise to take them to an amusement park, to the movies and out to lunch, or any activity that is a particular favorite for your kids.
