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Children want attention and may instigate
one child getting in trouble. When you
sit back and let them resolve the issue,
it is amazing how fast they can resolve
conict. I always say to my grandchildren,
“I trust you can work that out,” and they
do not come to me with minor bickering.
I reinforce behavior when they are
getting along, and when they are playing
nicely, by mentioning how great they
play together or how proud I am of them
for settling their differences. Take both
children to the local store, park, or for an
ice cream cone because they were having
a nice day together without ghting.
As your child gets older though, they
may want boundaries and more privacy.
Children should not have to share
everything. There could be a few toys
that they keep for themselves that they
want to save.
It is similar to money. Some children like
to save their money for candy, and some
gobble it up or spend right away, and
then expect the other child to give up their
stash. Teach them the dynamics of saving
and delay of gratication; in this example,
they can learn to model the sibling who is
conservative or more mature.
Siblings usually have the longest lasting
relationships in adulthood. The core of
similar events and memories create a
bond that can last forever. The children
have seen each other’s strengths and
vulnerabilities, and know each other
better than any friend can.
Children learn early to forgive each other
because they must live with each other.
The loyalty in siblings to each other can
be erce. They can either be miserable
for the 1 years at home - or go in peace.
Reassure your children that they can be
friends for life as the family bonds are
very strong!