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How to convince an only child to have a sibling?

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Archie Heron
How to convince an only child to have a sibling?

We want to be wonderful parents to our children and have a happy family. Is a good family small or big? For an only child, siblings are not just jealousy and trouble. It is a proven fact that thanks to siblings, we learn to co-exist with others and develop more comprehensively.


Paradoxically, it is the only child who is the most difficult to bring up, although no one knows exactly what number of children is best. Nor what age difference is the most favourable.


Studies show that the happier a family is the more members it has - provided they are not affected by poverty. Why is it good for children when there are more children at home? Because then the child has a better chance of finding a soul mate among his or her siblings!


If parents behave in the right way, when they have reached a sufficient level of maturity, children can find in a brother or sister a true support and a most loyal friend. A close person who will help in every situation in life.


We do not ask an only child whether he or she wants a brother or sister if we know that one is already on the way. After all, he has no influence on that anyway. It is more important to explain and show him in good time that this can be the best playmate. Initiate joint play as early as possible.


The arrival of a second child enriches everyone. It is worth making the older child aware that in addition to company, he or she gains more opportunities to celebrate. Because it means more birthdays, cakes with candles, more presents and toys. And don't forget to add: "And when you grow up, you will become friends for life".


To alleviate feelings of jealousy, use the reading of stories about jealousy between siblings, abandoned children or evil stepmothers. The fairy tale of Cinderella, Tom Fingers or the Three Little Pigs are noteworthy. You can tell stories from your own childhood that had a happy ending. Fairy tales can be very helpful, because a child immersed in fantasy can relieve fear, anger, frustration or aggression.


Keep in mind that the child is tossing and turning between love for the new brother or sister and rejection. This can be seen during play when he is good to his toys, praising, stroking and cuddling them, and when he is shouting, hitting or torturing them. Allow it, in this way the child expresses his emotions, which he would not dare to show.

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Archie Heron
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