How to make sure DCs feel ok about siblings having greater abilities in certain areas

[Maddy06]

I'm wondering how some of you might deal with the following - DD2 is beginning to overtake DD1 at gymnastics, which they have both taken part in from an early age. DD2 has been moved to a new class to do slightly more serious training, while DD1 remains in a class aimed more at just having fun.

DD1 has always kind of been 'top dog' in our house, and while I don't want to play down DD2's achievements, I also don't want to knock DD1's confidence. It must be hard for her to watch her little sister overtaking her. Of course they have differing abilities in all sorts of things, but DD2's move to a new class has just made it so obvious in this case.

I'm sure this issue will continue to rear it's head as they get older, and I'd just like some advice on dealing with it sensitively and fairly. They are close in age - 18 months apart.

I think that this book Siblings without Rivalry has some excellent advice about this very issue.

If I could remember any of it I would share it now, but sadly I can't.

acknowledge difficult feelings without belittling them

remind the child that what they get out of it is important, not who does best

don't stop a child from doing an activity just because a sibling shows special talent, everyone should be allowed to share the fun of gymnastics regardless of who is the best at it

and lots more that I still can't remember, sorry

Thanks Humphrey. I'll take a look

Watching with interest as we are in the same situation (but not gymnastics!)