Sibling Rivalry with Toddlers
All children fight at some point, though some will do it more than others. Toddlers don’t share well, fact! Whether the sharing involves toys, games or parents, it doesn’t matter, they want them for themselves. Toddlers don’t have the social skills to resolve things nicely, if they want something their brother or sister has, they’ll do their best to get it. They will often vie for their parents attention, be that positive or negative, they want a reaction!!!!
How can I resolve sibling rivalry (with sanity intact)?
- Ignore squabbles where possible, as long as no one can get hurt or is being bullied, then leave the room so they have no audience.
- Give them the chance to sort things out between them, a valuable lesson for the future.
- If they cannot resolve the argument, help them to find a solution rather than dwelling on the cause.
- Try not to take sides. When things get to a certain point, be firm that you will not tolerate anymore and if it continues there will be consequences.
- Praise good behaviour towards each other.
- Remember you don’t have eyes in the back of your head. You don’t see every crafty push or a toy being snatched away. The “innocent party” may not always be quite so innocent.
- Teach them to take turns and share. It may not work now, but at least you are giving them the basics for the future.
- Distract their attention with a fun activity that everyone can do together; make a den, painting, play dough or bake cakes. Basically anything to take their minds of their squabble.
- Try to make some time to spend with each individual child.
- Some special toys must be classed as the child’s own and not for sharing, a treasured soft toy or comforter for example.
You will probably find that away from the home environment your children will be fiercely protective of each other. Well that’s toddlers for you!!!
