Parenting Siblings
… why should we see each other as rivals, when we can actually be friends
… why should we push, when we can use our hands and arms to hug and cuddle
… and why should we make each other cry, when we can be silly and make each other laugh
…
A magnet on my fridge says, ‘Children see themselves through OUR eyes’.
And I feel it’s just so true.
How we as parents respond to our children – in our actions, words and even in our unspoken words – greatly affect how our children see themselves AND each other in the family.
I care for my two little ones every single day from the time they were born. I see them laugh, snatch, giggle, shove, hold hands, complain and share with each other.
And really, after going through those many early days together with them, I must say, a positive relationship between siblings IS possible to have.
Yes, there are conflicts and tears, but in the end, there are forgiveness and hugs.
And if you ask me, I don’t think we can ever eliminate that little tinge of ‘natural competitiveness’ amongst siblings.
BUT, we as parents sure can (and should) proactively encourage positive and loving relationships amongst our children.
May God help us all in becoming better parents to the little ones whom He has entrusted in our care.
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hmm…. I’m yet to find out about sibling rivalry. At the moment, it’s still all ‘jie jie loves u, JH’ kind of thing going on. Very protective jie jie at d time being. Once JH is mobile, it’ll be interesting to find out how they’ll treat each other. Until then, i’d better enjoy the moment
That’s lovely Leonny, just what I needed! A little encouragement for the never ending bickering between my two boys. Yes, can you believe it?? It has started already…
Thanks! 🙂