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Siblings Without Rivalry

summary ofSiblings Without RivalryBook by Adele Faber, Elaine Mazlish

11 min
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You’ll learn

  • How to manage different sibling roles
  • Tips to handle children's fights
  • Why equal isn't always right
  • Strategies for healthy emotional expression

first KEY POINT

Sibling rivalry happens even with the best parenting

Actor Stewart Stafford once said about sibling rivalry: "The eldest child is the golden one, the middle child invisible, and the youngest child is loud." This sums up the challenge of parents with more than one child. Can they avoid rivalry, competition, jealousy, and fighting between siblings?Tensions between children in one family occur due to many emotional factors, such as one child feeling less loved by the parents, insecurity, or constant competition with their siblings. These quarrels may take place even when parents are trying to do their best.

Sibling rivalry does not define anyone’s identity. Don’t be uncomfortable seeing your kids compete.

As a parent, your tasks are understanding the reasons for sibling rivalry and learning not to attribute your children's feuds to your parenting style. But you need the techniques to handle tensions between your children and strategies to raise them as confident individuals, right?Are you ready to gain that knowledge to transform your parenting? Then stay tuned!

second KEY POINT

Don’t repress negative feelings

Kids often feel enraged and threatened by the very presence of their other siblings. You can see them screaming at each other, and they all come running to you to complain. Sometimes, it can be hard not to yell back at them and not listen to how they feel in a bid to put an end to it. However, ignoring their rage makes them bury it and can lead to physical symptoms or emotional problems. If you truly want to solve the problem, you must welcome their emotions and treat them with respect. Kids tend to feel a sense of comfort when they have someone who will listen to their negative feelings.

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first KEY POINT

Constant comparison increases anxiety

second KEY POINT

Equality vs. Unique attitude

third KEY POINT

Even positive roles can be damaging

fourth KEY POINT

What to do when kids fight

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Faber and Mazlish, experts in parenting and communication, were faculty members at The New School for Social Research and The Family Life Institute of Long Island University. They lecture worldwide and have appeared on major US TV talk shows.

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Frequently asked questions

What is 'Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too' about?

'Siblings Without Rivalry' by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish focuses on strategies for raising siblings who can coexist peacefully. The book offers practical advice on reducing conflict among children while fostering teamwork and mutual respect, helping parents create a harmonious family environment.

What are the key takeaways from 'Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too'?

Key takeaways include understanding the root of sibling rivalry, encouraging positive communication, and promoting problem-solving skills among siblings. The authors emphasize the importance of acknowledging each child's individuality and teaching them to support one another.

Is 'Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too' worth reading?

Yes, 'Siblings Without Rivalry' is highly recommended for parents looking to improve sibling dynamics. The book is filled with insightful techniques that can significantly reduce family conflict and foster closer sibling relationships.

How many pages is 'Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too' and when was it published?

'Siblings Without Rivalry' has 216 pages and was initially published in 1987. Its timeless advice continues to resonate with parents navigating the challenges of raising siblings.

Who are the authors of 'Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too'?

The book is authored by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, renowned for their expertise in child communication and parenting techniques. Their collaborative work provides practical insights that empower parents in their approach to sibling relationships.