How Your Child Can Appreciate Her Siblings

If your child has siblings, it’s important for her to foster positive relationships with them. Help your children strengthen their siblinghood with our advice at the best schools in Polk County. Building on these bonds now will encourage them to grow together, avoid rivalry, and always be there for each other.

Kindness and Respect
The rule of the house should be: no insulting each other. Words are powerful, and any disrespectful remarks can affect them. They should be saying positive things to each other, and playing with each other fairly. If you see them playing nicely with each other, give them praise — but remember that each child deserves the same interest and praise! When they see you doing it, they will do it, too. They will learn that they can count on each other throughout life.

No Favorites
Your child’s appreciation for her siblings starts with you, the parents. Playing favorites will only lead to rivalry and resentment. Avoid ugly situations by equally praising each of your child’s individual talents and accomplishments. Think of Genesis when Jacob’s favoritism of Joseph led to disaster. No child is better than the other.

Who They Are, Not What They Do
A good practice is showing appreciation for who your children are, rather than what they are doing. If your child did an assignment well at school, she will feel valued for his performance but still not feel her worth. All of your children have God-given characteristics and talents that should be nurtured to foster their self-esteem.

Resolving Conflict
Your job is to manage any conflict in the household. All of their feelings are justified and they should be encouraged to appropriately express their feelings. Rather than pointing out what they are doing wrong, encourage them to state their feelings using “I feel” statements. Your family should be able to effectively communicate their thoughts and feelings without being made to feel like doing so is a problem. These traits will help them blossom into adults who can deal with problems that arise.

At the best schools in Polk County we foster an atmosphere of care and an environment of high expectations and effective discipline. To learn more about what makes us different, contact the Office of Catholic Schools at the Diocese of Orlando by dialing 407-246-4800.