Here is one area in which I could use parenting advice – Kids Fighting.
And, I am not talking about my children and other kids. Luckily, they get along well with all of their friends! 
No, I am talking about my kids and my kids. Yep – sibling rivalry at it’s worst.
In fact, my job as parent would be a lot easier if everyone just got along – all the time.
I hate hearing that whine, “MOOOOOOOOOOM, he did this or he did that.”
And how about the lovely question, “How come he gets to do so and so, and I don’t. It’s not fair!”
I have tried everything from punishment, to reward, to ignoring, to yelling. And it is probably my lack of consistency that keeps the children’s arguments alive.
I have narrowed it down to the following 10 Parenting Tips to Stop Kids Fighting (from a mom at her wit’s end):
- Your siblings are your best friends. If you can’t treat them well, then you can’t have playdates with other friends. Sounds fair enough don’t you think?
- You must try to work through your differences before involving me – mom. This must be done without yelling or physical contact.
- Be flexible and open to each others suggestions. LISTEN to each other.
- If you do call me in on the matter, then what I say goes – and you may not like my decision.
- No teasing is allowed, under any circumstances – provoked or otherwise.
- Remember that you are not all the same age. Behavior that is ok for a five year old may not be ok for a twelve year old, and vice versa.
- Same as number 4, except privileges that are granted to a twelve year old may not be appropriate for a five year old.
- Respect the decisions of your parents for rules 4 and 5. Do argue the matter and do not harbor resentment towards your siblings for those decisions.
- If you are willing to share a toy, snack, etc. with a friend – you should also be willing to share the same with a sibling.
- Love and respect each other – your siblings will always be there for you.
I hope this will put an end to the bickering! Let me know what works in your home.
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