7 Useful Ways to Reduce Sibling Rivalries

Children need to learn and understand just how much having a sibling can be a blessing. Encouraging them to understand why having a sibling is a fantastic thing is one step in teh right direction to raising an well-rounded child. Of course, you can't avoid sibling rivalry, but you can use it for the good as each child has to learn to share, let go first and are taught how to be thoughtful and disagree in healthy ways.

As a parent, you should set clear boundaries and ensure your children firmly understand the consequences for arguing with each other. Something like a 'do not disturb the family peace' rule can be very effective, as it holds all siblings involved in any clashes responsible and removes the he-said/she-said habit.

By doing so, you encourage them to cool down and relax, while also self-reflecting over their behaviour and process exactly why they're upset.

Plan and organise mother and son, or father and daughter time, without their siblings there. Take them for breakfast, shopping or for a game of bowling. Anything on a rotating basis that will help to alleviate any sibling conflict, and also ensures you get some quality time with and give individual attention to each child separately, which is vital to them maintaining a healthy and honest relationship with both you and your partner.

Children copy adults, it's plain and simple. Your kids are watching how you handle stress at home on a daily basis, when you have to do something you don't like. If you have a partner who has different interests than you, while as much as it may become annoying sometimes, use the opportunity to show how differences in relationships can compliment each other. Teach your children that difference is good, and can ultimately make relationships stronger.

Following on from setting an example to embrace differences between each other, when talking to your children, point out each of their own unique qualities - especially if it's contrasting to the strengths of a sibling. By bringing attention to their strengths infront of their siblings, it teaches all of them to recognise and appreciate the positive side to being different.

As parents, we can understand that few things are as annoying as when each of your children meticulously keep track of their sibling's behaviour and report it to you. This is commonly referred to as 'tattletale', which nobody enjoys from an individual. To help discourage tattling on each other, reinforce in your kids the value of overlooking minor faults and mistakes, and encourage them to report urgent incidents that really do require Mum and Dad's time.

At the end of the day, we all want our kids to have happy memories more so than those of conflict and sorrow. While it's impossible to avoid all conflict, it's worth the effort as a parent to encourage an appreciation within your kids and understanding of one another. With our tips, we have no doubt you'll be on the right path to a more harmonious atmosphere in your home!

What advice do you have as a parent, for other parents reading this? Comment below and share your tips with us!