From arguments over who finished dinner first to screaming matches over toys, sibling rivalry is one of the many challenges that we as parents face...most of us, multiple times a day. Heck, just today I have been the referee to a fight over toys, the arbitrator of an argument about who should use the bathroom first (though we have three of them), and the conciliator of of a massive meltdown over the magical disappearance of a pack of princess fruit-snacks. All of that...before lunch.
What is sibling rivalry, you ask? Well, it must be noted that every family and every situation is different. According to Dictionary.com, sibling rivaly is competition between siblings for attention, affection, and approval from their parents. Ha. As flattering as this definition sounds, my experiences have been quite different. In fact, when my kids quabble, I don't believe that its about getting my attention or approval at all. It's about getting what they want, when they want it, how they want it, and from whomever they want it...most of the time, that "whomever" is each other...which is where the problems come in.
I am no expert at solving every parenting issue, in fact Im quite new to it, but in my spectacular five years of being "mommy", I have learned that it does take a village to raise a child...my village just so happens to be my limited experience, my children's grandparents, the BIBLE, self-help books (including parenting magazines) and, of course, the internet. Below, I have compiled several links for your review on the definition of sibling rivaly, its perceived causes, and how to cope with it. Good luck!
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About Sibling Rivalry , How to Handle Sibling Rivalry , Sibling Harmony , Sibling Rivaly , Sibling Relationships , Focus on Family , Toddlers and Rivalry , Positive Parenting
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