How Parents can avoid Sibling Jealousy

Some parents might think that sibling rivalry is only for siblings with common interest such as career and hobby. Parents should realize that the moment a child will start to have a sibling, the rivalry begins which may cause sibling jealousy. This phase of a child’s life begins as early as when the child’s mother becomes pregnant again. The child therefore, will notice the change of his parent’s attention to his upcoming sibling.

This gradual change will make the child wonder and start asking about it, which is the most delicate part. Due to the excitement of parents especially mothers to have their second baby, she may neglect her first child. Now, here is what I think parents should realize.

Give the right answers

Though parents might think that answering a child’s question is very easy, there are still right answers to consider. Children are very intelligent, and if you do not explain it well, his mind will analyze the situation, and his heart can easily have a conclusion. If he feels her mother is too busy with other things, he will think that she does not love him anymore. Explain to your child how a baby will grow inside your tummy, and that the baby inside will be his playmate soon. He will then find it exciting, and jealousy will be converted to curiosity.

Show proof of equality

Here comes the importance of pictures. Your child will be excited to see his old pictures, and realize that you have done to him all the things you are doing again. In this way, you are not only showing proof of equality, you are also having bonding with your child. Although it is difficult, show your child that you are trying to balance your time for both of you. This will make your child more comfortable and jealousy will stop.

Give his share of responsibility

If a child realizes that it is his brother that is inside your womb, therefore he must have a share of responsibility. You can ask your child give you a pillow to lie on when the baby kicks, or ask his opinion for the name of the baby. After you gave birth, let your child be among the first ones to see the baby and explain to him how sensitive a new born baby is. If you will use some of his toys for his brother, borrow them from him, or let him share his toys personally. This will make him proud to be older one.

Never compare

This is the worst thing you can ever do to hurt your child. Never compare your child to his other siblings. His mistakes have nothing to do with the right things his siblings did, and vice versa. Instead, teach him to share his achievements with his other siblings. More so, inspire your children to help and support one another, especially to your youngest. After all, this should be the scenario when they grow up and when you will be gone for good.

If you have serious problems in dealing with the behavior of your child, you can visit The 21 Days To A Happy Child Guide.


Related posts:
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How to entertain your Child if he keeps on asking Questions
How to Teach your Child Deal with Failure
How to Deny your Child’s Request
How to Avoid Having a Black Sheep in the Family
10 Bad Reasons why Children Hate to Stay Home
What Children Do Not Want From Their Parents

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  • LIFE Moto posted: 24 Nov at 3:36 pm

    i remembered that when we having our second child. My son is the one who gave the name for his sister.