Helping Siblings Bond
Having young children may lead to sibling rivalries, accompanied by fighting, resentment, and lots of tears. However, with a little effort and strategy, you can foster sibling bonding. To help young siblings bond, find fun activities for them to do together, and encourage teamwork and trust. Avoid comparing siblings, and equip them with handy conflict resolution skills. Soon, you’ll be on your way to a more harmonious household.
Play!
Playing together can help your children bond at any age. The options for play are limitless! Try getting them to play a game, like tag, hide and seek, or even cards or a board game. Very young siblings can play age-specific favorites, like peek-a-boo or patty cake
Let's Pretend!
Always try to encourage your kiddos imaginations to wander and create magical worlds together. When I was growing up, my brother and I would use old fridge boxes to make clubhouses that we would cut windows into and draw on inside! We also would play restaurant, where I would make a menu and serve him like he was my customer. Sadly, it would always be the same meal. (soggy crackers I would mash up with water- gross)
Get crafty
You can adjust the crafts for each child based on their level of development, but they can use the same materials and complete the projects together. Craft projects are a great way for siblings to spend time together no matter their age, developmental stage, or ability.
Teamwork makes the dream work!
Try to challenge your children in ways that require teamwork. Working together toward a common goal can help them bond while avoiding competition for your attention, which can turn nasty pretty fast. Find ways for them to do chores or play together as a team.
I am so excited to see how my little kids find ways to work together...I am sure they will bicker like we did. But I hope they will be lifelong friends like my brother and I are!
Photos of the Denbraber Family
Dallas, TX, US