Sibling indifference?

[Miriam101]

Have a nearly 4yo DD and a 7mo DS. DD has never shown any hostility towards him but is simply not that interested in him. Actually when he was tiny she was quite intrigued, rather in the way you might be if your parents brought home a puppy, but now he’s a bit more of a proper person she just blanks him most of the time. I think maybe there’s a bit of resentment creeping in that he’s taking up more attention. I am trying not to push her into interaction she obviously isn’t up for, but I’m feeling a bit sad at the same time that the wonderful blossoming of sibling friendship I had heard about from friends hasn’t really happened yet. Will it ever?! Has anyone else had an indifferent elder sibling who eventually became interested and friendly to the young one?

I was that indifferent older sibling!

Similar age gap to yours. We mostly just ignored each other until he turned 12 or 13. At that point our interests were more in line and we began to like similar TV shows and music, playstation games etc.

We have got on fine ever since then.

Thanks @xHeartinacagex I’m glad you get on ok now. Do you think there’s anything your parents could have done to encourage you to be more close or do you think any attempt would have backfired?

Not really to be honest. I wouldn't say we didn't get on, because of the age gap we just didn't have much in common. I don't think either of us saw it as a problem though. Although we weren't close we didn't really argue either and were happy enough playing with our friends for company.

My two children are much closer in age and because they like the same things they tend to fight over toys and vie for our attention.