Siblings

[WildebeestH]

I'm not really sure where to post this so apologies if this isn't the right place. I have a just 5 year old ds (year 1) and a 2.5 year old dd. I'm currently really struggling to manage their different needs. There are times when they play together or at least alongside but there are also lengthy periods when they both want my time. Ds it's more able to play on his own and will show his unhappiness quietly, wheras Dd will demonstrate it loudly and destructively. I feel like because of this ds probably gets the poorer deal and sometimes I actually feel like I really don't like dd. How can I connect better with her but also prevent her from destroying all of ds' games? I know 1:1 time is important and we do try this but I'm really looking for ideas for when they're together.

I had this and the only way was to book time to spend one to one with my older child. I had to literally get a "babysitter" to watch my younger child so I could have an hour with DD.

I asked my Mum or if DH was off work, then he'd do it. Don't worry too much though...it's very normal. Even 10 minutes one to one per child per day is good and will stand them in good stead.

Mine are younger but I'm already seeing that the little one is learning if she crys we all come running or her brother just gives her what he has or she needs. I'm starting to realise she has to learn sometimes she will just cry a bit and sometimes her brother will keep his own things, although equally he can't snatch from her.

Can you get your LO doing a 'job' and have the older one helping you (she sets the table - randomly wanders around the house with a sppon) while you and your older kid cook.

Or have them both do an activitiy like drawing where she can draw you a house while you spend a couple of mins helping your older kid draw something?