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Dealing With Sibling Rivalry

Published on: 9 July , 2017 | Kanchan V

Got kids?  Then you have quarrels, face-offs, competitions and even a few knock downs to cope up with – we know you are dealing with sibling rivalry. This term “Sibling Rivalry” is sure to send jitters in your veins. Every parent has to go through this difficult phase- where you try to maintain your self-respect while dealing with it. It is not uncommon for brothers and sisters to fight or quarrel, but that does not mean that they do not love each other; or yearn for each other. While many kids are blessed to have a “perfect sibling” relationship, it is not uncommon for other siblings to fight often. It is very stressful to see our kids fight like cats and dogs, at times it turns out to be physical abuse, calling out names, yelling, slamming doors or flares out into bitter fights as well. These are the testing times for any parent, while you sort out their differences at the same time not make any child feel low or left out. The reasons for these fights are not uncommon to guess-toys, clothes, activities choice, TV remote control, electronic gadgets or the first chance on swing – they are really rooted in the struggle to achieve your love and attention.  These are a few tips which would help you in dealing with sibling rivalry: Avoid getting involved As far as possible, avoid getting involved in the fights. We should allow the kids to sort out their problems on their own. This enhances their problem-solving skills and communicative skills. Generally, the decision would be in favour of one child; then the other child feels let down, and dejected. This may lead to a situation that - you unintentionally – are giving out a signal that you are “protecting” one child and this might lead to more rebellious feelings within the other child. So, encourage them to sort out their problems amicably on their own. Invariably, at times, situations blow out of proportion, then ‘step in’ to solve the problems with them and not for them. Firstly, it would be wise on your part to separate the kids till they cool down. After that has happened, then talk to them and ask them to reconcile to each other. Toy fights Each child is attached to their favourite toy/toys & nothing can separate them from it. So, if anybody tries to, then they react adversely. The best “toy strategy” would be to allow each kid to keep their favourite toys to himself. Those become his private ones, having full authority over them. It is okay to have your own territory; it makes you feel secure. And making it clear that the other toys are common and both the siblings have equal access to them is also very important. This ensures peace and contentment to a large extent. Of course, they can share toys amongst each other at their own terms, that is their lookout. We need to remember that, when kids handle their disputes, they learn two important things-
  • Understand the sibling’s perspective
  • How to compromise and negotiate.
These are values which will remain with them lifelong. Differences in the preferences Each child grows with a different temperament, no child is the same psychologically and emotionally. Their mood swings vary; at times they might feel like going outside to play, or sometimes would just like to sit in one corner of the room and paint or colour. One child could be a tomboy loving to play outdoors, whereas the other one could possess love for baking. Fights over activities can turn into major brawls & struggles. It becomes a herculean task for the parents to make sure each child’s interests and preferences are honoured at the appropriate time. How to deal with conflicting interests? Here are some tips:
  1. It is unfair on the parent’s part to dump an activity on the child just because her/his sibling loves doing it. If one loves painting, you can involved the other child to choose the colouring set, and let the other child practice her strokes. Involvement even in a small way will pave way to togetherness and unison.
  2. “Fair” and “equal” attitude is not possible in all situations. At times, one child needs more support than the other.
  3. Make efforts to give your kids one-to-one attention directed to their interests and wants, as much as you can.
  4. Most importantly, make them feel that their needs and wants will surely be fulfilled by their parents. So, this instills a sense of security in them.
  5. Make sure that the child has her own “me time” when she gets to do her own activity, without the sibling tagging along. This gives a sense of freedom and relaxation to the child.
Tough mess-ups Your son has just completed his science project; ready for submission the next day, kept on his study table. Your little one one spots it; and wonders what this weird looking colourful thing is.  He lacks the impulse control to keep his cute little mitts off it. He starts exploring it; and bye-bye to the science project. Your elder one, not surprisingly, gets upset and yells; he has justified every blow; his long hours of hard work is shattered on the floor. It is an awkward situation where you know who the culprit is, but cannot punish him- don’t feel helpless. Make your son realize that the little one did not intend to do make you angry, he is just a baby. Keep your cool, have a totally relaxed attitude. Allow him to vent his anger on you, verbally, instead of taking it out on the younger brother, who does not understand what is happening. Next step would be to assure the elder one that he will be given a safe place to keep all his belongings.   Attention grabbers It is your elder daughter’s Graduation Day programme; her special evening which she has been looking forward to from many days. You are all getting prepared for the grand event; rehearsals, grooming up the elder one and doing all the special things for her which will make her feel good. The younger one is watching all this; she wants to feel special too.  She starts throwing tantrums, that is the easiest way to grab attention of her parents. Sudden demand  for a new doll is also one way of protesting; to seek attention. The best way to deal with this could be:
  1. Make the child understand that it is her elder sister’s special evening, and make her recollect that in the past she too has had many special ones. This time it is the elder one who is getting a lion’s share of attention, so it’s okay to be on the other side at times.
  2. Make the younger one feel important by asking her to help you out with getting the bags packed for the evening, or packing some snacks for the journey. This can encourage her and make her feel one with the family.
  3. Make your child feel that your love is unconditional, and it has no limits or boundaries.
  Nursing mania Nursing the baby is a beautiful feeling as you wish to create an everlasting bond with the baby. The mother does not get much time to do what she wants, but nursing is the time when she is only belonging to her baby.  No matter how hard a child tries to be tolerant it is bound to be traumatic when the new baby arrives.  Your child’s jealousy gets the better of him and he starts acting crazy. These crazy times can be handled in such a manner which the child can easily adopt to. Keep aside toys especially the ones she likes, for the feeding time. And make it clear that she can get those only when she is at the best of her behavior.  Once this tactic is put in routine, you will be surprised to discover that feeding is the most peaceful and calm part of the day. In the midst of all this, be sure to make eye contact with your baby from time to time, as nursing is an important part of bonding. As you know the rest of your life your attention will be automatically split into half!
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Kanchan V

Kanchan is a doting mom to two angels and is passionate about writing. With over 3 years of experience in the content space, she strives to push boundaries and balance her personal & professional life well.

Priyadarshani Panda 2017-07-17 23:09:47

those fights were the best and the best parents can do is let them sort on their own

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Priyadarshani Panda 2017-07-17 23:09:47

Hey Priya, these are best resolved between siblings. Unfortunately we are the referees everyday. Can't help much :)

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Anubhuti Seth 2017-07-15 10:01:43

Reminds me of the day me and my sis fought over a pencil, so badly that she broke my earring and mom closed us in one room to finish it off by ourselves... Great tips for the parents with two kids as this is sure to follow...

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Anubhuti Seth 2017-07-15 10:01:43

Hi Anubhuti, we have fought over the silliest reasons. I recollect fighting with my sister to decide who will fry the puris in the frying pan/kadai. While we were nudging each other, the hot oil spashed on my elbow & I suffered boils & scars which have left a mark & are visible even today :(

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Kavita Singh 2017-07-14 15:54:32

Your post reminded me of the fights between me and mine siblings. Thank you for sharing this. ?

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Kavita Singh 2017-07-14 15:54:32

Hi Kavita, when we ponder upon all those petty tiffs, we realize how stupid were we to fight on meaningless things. Bt these are the moments that make us smile after 20 years :)

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Anchal 2017-07-14 13:23:37

Took me back to my childhood days. Thankfully our rivalry was only due to petty issues and nothing major. I am the elder one. So helped my younger brother :)

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Afsha Galar 2017-07-13 15:19:03

I am dreading the day I will have to deal with this

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Afsha Galar 2017-07-13 15:19:03

We all have been through this & is inevitable to watch our kids have tiffs in similar fashion. I think this is the way we all evolve:)

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Vidhi 2017-07-12 15:31:09

It makes me remind of the time I spent with my sis during childhood. Now, my daughter's fight in the same way. You have mentioned the most common and interesting situations. Tips are helpful too.

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Vidhi 2017-07-12 15:31:09

Thanks alot Vidhi for acknowledging our efforts. We all have had our share of sibling rivalry and so are our kids. How we handle them with a calm & composed mind showcases if we as a parent, are in control of the situation. Happy Parenting! :)

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Menaka Bharathi 2017-07-11 20:27:05

Haven't got another kid so haven't encountered it yet..but me and my bro did have a lot of sibling rivalry

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Menaka Bharathi 2017-07-11 20:27:05

Hi Menaka, where ther are siblings there will be tiffs. I think that's how all of us grow up together :)

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Prisha Lalwani 2017-07-10 11:04:04

my twins are always at war and if i dont interfer, the world will face consequences! Jokes paart but you really shared some helpfl tips here. Thank you.

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Prisha Lalwani 2017-07-10 11:04:04

Haha, thanks Prisha. We essay many roles as a parent.. the toughest one being a judge but non-judgemental :)

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jiya 2017-07-10 09:35:11

This phase is never eneidng i beleive siblings even fight when they grow up and have their own kids. Its on parents how to deal with such situations.

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jiya 2017-07-10 09:35:11

True Jiya. Sibling rivalry persists even when our kids grow up. We want our kids to excel & get better than their peers. How we deal with this will help in shaping up our children's personality, outlook & future :)

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Rashmi 2017-07-10 09:32:14

Made me miss my childhood days with my younger brother

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Rashmi 2017-07-10 09:32:14

:) Hi Rashmi, who has not fought in their childhood. All of us have... and it's these memories that make us smile :)

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Geethica Mehra 2017-07-10 08:42:19

I am going through this phase currently. And that photo in your post is just me. Your advices are very helpful bit still there are times when nothing helps?

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Zainab 2017-07-10 07:30:23

It's really hard at times when the kids fight! You are right no matter how Minch I may try, at times one child does need more support than the other! Good points!

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Pranita 2017-07-10 00:19:20

hahahah!! This makes me remember my childhood days again??

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Pranita 2017-07-10 00:19:20

:) All of us have fought like Tom & Jerry as kids!

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Nayantara Hegde 2017-07-09 23:46:51

This post made me miss childhood days with my baby brother

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Vaidehi 2017-07-09 23:34:24

Me and my brother used to fight for that remote control. You have given really valuable tips. Thankyou for that

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Thank you for the comment!