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Original poster

Sibling rivalry

4 replies

Incakewetrust · 05/08/2024 00:38

I have 2 DDs (5 and 6) and I know they're probably a bit sick of each other as it's the summer holidays and they're not getting a break from each other but they just physically can't get on at the moment.
All they do is argue, fight each other and wind each other up. I feel like I spend 90% of my day acting as a referee.

Can anybody advise on what I could do to help? I'm getting so frustrated with them both as there's a constant negative atmosphere.

OP posts:
allbymysel · 05/08/2024 02:01

Try to stop getting involved. Refuse to weigh in and don't react. Suggest they go play separately. If they are being rude/aggressive they get a consequence

Mine were like this as teens drive me insane. I am still neutral now (they are in their twenties!)

TheSandgroper · 05/08/2024 02:08

Get a mate in for the day. It just changes the dynamic enough.

junebirthdaygirl · 05/08/2024 02:45

Ignore as much as possible as they may be doing it to get your attention. Do they sleep in different rooms so they get a break from each other. Can you do a behaviour chart that if both go without fighting for a day/ two days ye will have a treat/ day out etc. Try and have a little individual time with each if possible.

Saying all this l have sisters. We fought!! We are adults now and literally best friends. Get on so well. So supportive of each other. We managed to care for my very ill mother for 5 years without one cross word between us and l am talking hands on care in a rota..constant. So don't panic .Maybe read: How to talk so my children listen and listen so my children talk..or something like that. Lots of ideas for parenting which may help.

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Original poster
Incakewetrust · 05/08/2024 08:15

Thanks for all the advice!
I think I do get too involved trying to diffuse the situation so I'll try not to react today when they inevitably start at each other.

To answer a few questions, yes they have their own bedrooms so they get space away from each other at night.
No, they don't really have one to one time with me currently. I'm a SAHM and husband works FT so in the day, I don't get help with childcare so they're both always with me.

Thanks for the suggestion of the book. I've heard of it before but never read it. I'll order a copy today!
I'm glad to hear that you're best friends with your sisters. I was never close with my siblings so I love to hear that even though you fought as children, you're so close now. I hope it's the same for my girls xxx

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