How to Develop Good Toddler & Sibling Relationships
In a perfect world, siblings would be born knowing how to get along with each other and there would never be any fighting or arguing. Unfortunately, we don̵7;t live in such a world and there will be disagreements as your children grow up. In fact, arguments between siblings are normal, according to HealthyChildren.org. Whether you̵7;re trying to teach your children to share toys, work on projects together or eat a meal in peace, there̵7;s hope.
Instructions
Create ground rules for behavior and consequences for breaking the rules recommends Kids Health. Some rules might include no hitting, no yelling and no taking toys without permission. The consequences for breaking the rules should be age appropriate. Set a good example with your actions. Speak gently to your children instead of shouting and show kindness even when you̵7;re frustrated. Encourage your children to do the same, recommends parenting consultant Suzy Martyn in an article on PBSParents. Explain the difference between ̶0;fair̶1; and ̶0;equal̶1; to your children, suggests an article on the University of Michigan Health System website. While your toddler may not comprehend this concept, it might help older siblings understand why your rules and approach are a certain way. Everyone doesn̵7;t always get the same, but you try to give them what they need. Avoid comparing your children to each other or playing favorites. This only fosters a sense of competitiveness that won̵7;t foster good sibling relationships. Foster sensitivity among your children and encourage them to develop their relationships with each other. The AskDrSears website suggests encouraging special relationships among your children. For example, the ̶0;sibling in charge̶1; can help care for a younger sibling; the ̶0;sibling teacher̶1; teaches another a skill he does well; and ̶0;sibling co-workers̶1; work on a project together. Encourage empathy. When you discipline one sibling for doing something wrong, help him understand how his actions hurt his siblings. Create activities your children can work on together. Martyn writes that having a common goal and focus helps siblings avoid conflict. Some ideas include cooking a meal together, building a fort, or putting together a puzzle. Spend one-on-one time with each of your children and focus on what each one enjoys doing, recommends Kids Health. If one likes art, do an art project with her. If another likes sports, play a game of catch with him outside. Set aside time each day when your children can be on their own or with their own friends. Hold family meetings. Your toddler might be too young to contribute much to these meetings, but it will give older siblings a chance to air complaints or even offer suggestions. HealthyChildren.org also recommends using family meetings to give children positive recognition or weekly rewards such as allowances or special privileges.
