5 Tips To Avoid Sibling Jealousy – Parenthood

Psychologists explain that sibling jealousy can occur in two ways: those who feel older siblings are jealous of the younger ones, and conversely, those who are younger siblings are jealous of the older ones.

The most common thing is that older brothers feel jealous of the little ones. When this happens, the older brother “backs down” in his behavior, that is, he has childish behaviors, imitating his younger brother. These symptoms will go away or be reduced as the older child adjusts to their younger sibling and grows and understands more.

But if your oldest son is still at the most sensitive stage of the adjustment process when his new brother arrives, then it will be good to follow these tips:

Nourish your bond with each of your children

Before the newborn is born, be sure to talk openly and sincerely with your older child. Children understand more than adults. In addition, specialists have proven that in homes where parents have an open and communicative style of communication, in which children are treated the same, there is less jealousy between brothers.

Try to understand it

After the birth of a baby, it is normal for many young children to feel very excited. And at night they are more nervous and it costs them to sleep less. If your baby is still attached, you may need help as she may become less independent and less secure. Help him eat, accompany him and play with him.

If your child is small and going through a time like this, don’t think he is jealous, instead understand that your child is very perceptive and realizes that your attention is now divided.

Invite him to help you take care of his new brother

Sometimes kids are just curious and want to be a part of everything related to the arrival of their new sibling. That is why it is good to involve her in things that concern the baby before it is born. For example, when you are pregnant, talk about what the birth of a sibling will be like. Also, invite him to comment on the color of the room or the name of the future baby. It is very important that your older child always feels an important member of the family.

And when the baby is born, also invite him to participate in some tasks related to the care of the newborn. It is important that you spend time alone with him. Do as you did before, but also realize that her new brother will now be a big part of her life.

Avoid comparisons between children

Try not to make comparisons between the two. Lots of comments made without malice can create an unfavorable feeling in the big brother and fuel sibling jealousy. As they grow older, learn to showcase each other’s best, so that everyone knows their qualities and learns to differentiate themselves in a healthy way. It is not the same to explain to children that they are different when they are adolescents than when they are children.

Father’s affection diminishes fraternal jealousy

When a new baby arrives home, the routine inevitably changes. The mother will need to take care of the baby and take care of her during the quarantine phase. It is therefore likely that the first few days will be somewhat hectic. In these moments, it will be the father who will have to meet the requirements of the eldest son.

Thus, the child will look for his father when his mother is busy, which is a good thing, because it nourishes the family bond and helps the child to keep his habits with the help of his father. That way, he won’t feel out of place in his meals, sleep, study, or bath time.

The child can benefit from the arrival of his brother with the help of his parents. Treat your children the same, take care of both of them, and make time for each. As the days go by, you will realize that finding time for the things that really matter to us is easier than you might think. And this even when there is a new baby at home.