Sibling rivalry is arguably one of the most trying things that a parent deals with.
There seems to be little rhyme or reason for it; sometimes it appears as though all one child has to do to aggravate the other is to breathe.
While sibling rivalry is normal, there are some ways you can help ease the tensions between your children and foster a stronger familial bond.
"You love her more than you love me" is something that every parent of more than one child is going to hear at one point in their child rearing life.
While it may break your heart to think that one of your children feels left out or unloved, remember this; children's moods are fleeting and quickly shifting, and what seems the end of the world right now may very well be forgotten by dinner time.
Don't give in to your child's dramatic wailing; instead, calmly reassure her that you do, indeed, love her as much as her siblings.
Tell her calmly that she is a unique person, and you love her for simply being herself.
When you have gotten over the shock of hearing that accusation come out of your child's mouth, take a look at your parenting style and be sure that you're not doing the "I wish you were more like your sister/brother" routine.
Every child has something worthy of praise, so be sure that you praise it freely! Be sure to spend individual time with each child.
This can be difficult to carve out of a hectic schedule, but that one-on-one time is the best tool you have to assure each child that you love them.
They're receiving the one thing that every child wants - the attention of their parent, completely focused on them.
You don't have to make a big deal out of what you do or where you go; it's the fact that you're spending this time with them and them alone that makes it so powerful.
Finally, involve your children in learning games together rather than competitive pursuits.
When they must work together to solve a puzzle or complete a task, it fosters teamwork and solidarity, rather than pitting one child against another.
Try to pick activities that will give each child a chance to use his or her unique talents, and be available to gently referee if things begin to get argumentative.
When the game or task is over, be sure to praise how well they worked together, and to praise each child's individual accomplishments.
They'll soon realize what a powerful force they can be if they're together.
Keeping your calm and guiding rather than forcing are the best ways to combat sibling rivalry.
Before too much longer, your'll find that your children are best friends as well as siblings.