Siblings suddenly not getting along

[Safi123]

Hi guys,

looking for some advice I have DD (4.5) and DS(2.5) suddenly not getting along at all. DD has started reception recently and we also have a newborn DS(3weeks) at home. Both are lovely to baby but since DD started school they both wind each other up when she gets home and do not play together at all. This is almost like a 360 turn, all summer before newborn came and ever since they’ve both been alive they’ve been fine, they’ve had moments were they didn’t get on, but most of the time around 80% play together fine, would go off together play in their room etc for ages. Now they play nicely 5% of the time, I feel like a referee. Please tell me this is a phase since DD has started school and newborn is home, will it get better? Anything I can do to improve their relationship to somewhat as it was. I’m also looking to put DS(2.5) into nursery in December I think he is also super bored at home.

With all that change I'd be more surprised if they weren't acting out a bit- your daughter will be exhausted from school and a new baby is a big thing. 😀

Hang on in there and try not to stress, I'm sure things will settle. I used to have a secret bag of toys I'd pull out when things got very tough.

I'd imagine the older one is tired and socialised out after a day at school and the younger one is bored and desperate to play after a day at home with you and a newborn.

Make sure the younger one is getting lots of play opportunities (playdates/activities/nursery) that don't rely on the older one wanting to play. Make sure the older one has space after school to chill out away from the younger one.

For the weekends, if free play results in a fight, it might be worth having some set activities to do with them both (playdoh, painting, stickers, baking etc).

It's all very normal and will pass.

Thank you both for your advice, I think I’ll try and implement that see how they get on. Younger DS starts nursery in December so hopefully will help him with playing with other kids