Once your second child becomes mobile—whether by crawling or toddling into your firstborn’s territory—it’s natural for sibling conflicts to arise. While keeping the peace at home can be challenging, there are effective strategies to prevent and manage these disputes.
Initially, the new baby won’t seem like a threat to your first child’s cherished belongings, personal space, and self-proclaimed title of “boss.” However, once the baby starts to crawl and explore, expect the rivalry to intensify. Toddlers and young preschoolers often feel compelled to claim everything they see as “mine!” and infants don’t often understand the concept of shared property. Additionally, the attention your newborn receives can make your firstborn feel like he’s been sidelined. If your older child is under three, he may not fully grasp the idea of sharing—especially with a little brother who seems to invade his space.
Tips for Fostering Harmony
So, how can you help your children foster a largely rivalry-free relationship as they grow? Here are some tips:
Teach Sharing Skills
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Sharing and taking turns can be challenging, even for adults. It’s crucial to model these behaviors. Show your children how to share by offering them both a piece of your snack or taking turns with a toy. Let them see you and your partner demonstrating generosity, such as saying, “There’s only one cookie left, let’s split it.” This kind of behavior sets a positive example for them to follow.
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In summary, sibling rivalry is a common challenge, particularly as your second child starts to explore. By modeling sharing and taking turns, you can help your children navigate their relationship more harmoniously.