I loved Siblings Without Rivalry too! I think my favorite tip for really small sibs (it’s in the afterword) was to narrate their positive relationship for them - tell them “you’re a good team” or, if they get upset “you were having so much fun together and you didn’t expect this to happen.” It gives them an understanding that their relationship is basically good to return to when they are struggling.
Oh, I love this topic! I think having more than one child gives a parent an opportunity to teach skills that are fabulous for development. You have your own mini classroom! (I'm such a teacher lol) Your tip about giving them space is a great one for my kids too. We have separate quiet time each day, even though my oldest is 10 years old. She deserves some quiet time away from her 6-year-old brother. My personal biggest tip for parents of multiples is to use what is called "positive intent." For example, I say "you wanted your sister's attention, so you kept poking her. Instead, stand near her and say 'excuse me'." This allows them to learn the skill to get what they want. Once they learn the skill, you have to interfere less and less.
The most lightbulb-moment tips for me were not sharing and having them help each other! My mom never did that with me and my siblings, and I remember SO many ENDLESS fights over sharing or not sharing. And she never encouraged us to help each other. I want to do that!
We follow these tips are things are going really well for the first 3 months! I definitely let the baby know that I’m going to put him down to help the toddler so the toddler knows they’re a priority too. I also leave the baby unsupervised with the toddler (2 3/4) when I go do something small which I believe conveys the message of “I trust you” and I tell baby that the toddler is taking care of them while I’m gone. I believe it also helps the toddler feel more ownership of the baby and that baby is the family baby, not just mine.
We do all these things! We also try to keep most/all of the toys as shared toys, not necessarily Kid A’s toy and this one is Kid B’s toy - they are all toys that we share. Basically we don’t emphasize that this toy is owned by this child and this toy is owned by the other child. Even if they got it for their birthday. I also remind the kids that we are a family and we love each other and it’s important that we are kind and gentle with each other. Usually that simmers things down and they hug after hearing that reminder. It helps a lot to just say things out loud to the kids that you want them to know is true or right - how else will they learn all these social normals within the family?
Thanks to your ending I now have "She Will Be Loved" stuck in my head lol "It's not always rainbows and butterflies, it's compromise that moves us along." LOL! 😂
I like to encourage my toddler to show the baby how to do things (like raising your head, grabbing a toy, whatever). The toddler plays along every time! I think it really helps them get settled in their new "big sibling" role.
I have a 4 and a 3 year old. We do lots of games, activities, baking together to give them experiences of playing and working together. Praising the kids every time they do something kind, compliment them or helpful for the siblings, I’ll make a “gift” or card with one, and let them think of something nice to give to the other sibling and they feel like they did a nice thing for them after they give them the gift, and of course the one receding is stoked too!
Someone with 3 girls said that they buy the same outfit for all 3 so they don't fight. Kids were on average 2 years apart from eachother. It was super cute - they were all in the same baiting suit at the beach.
Yes! It’s less thinking too! I do this for my girl and boy too just cater whatever color it is they like. Ex, Pink jacket for girl, blue jacket for boy
I needed this! My girls have the same age gap as yours (their birthdays are 2 weeks apart) and we've really struggled with the older hitting the younger one. Constantly. Whether she's bored, excited, antsy, needs attention, whatever she just walks up amd hits her sister. Definitely going to try some of these strategies. I was literally just crying to my husband wondering HOW to foster a good relationship between the two. Thank yoy!
Ugh that’s so hard! When one I’d move hit the other I try to focus on the one who got hit, over emphasis if they’re okay. Then go to the hitter and tell them when they’re ready to say sorry they’re sister is waiting, but also that they can’t do much until they do
Adding another book to my TBR list! I get so many good book recommendations from you!! We already do the trading toys thing when the older wants what the baby is holding. Works great!
I think sticking up for your kids is huge. I feel like it was lacking or at least unsuccessful when I was growing up with an older sister. I felt pushed around or talked over often and it would have been nice if my older sister had actual consequences for what was, frankly, disrespecting another person. I just wanted it made unacceptable, and plan to do that for my second born if it kills me lol I think fostering the ability to stick up for yourself is key. These tips address that.
I’ve definitely tried some of these.. personality is a BIG factor and boys are an even bigger factor… boys are from a different planet. The exchanging for one for something else is a big one not just for siblings but for friendship development at playgroups/kinder etc. however it’s a work in progress with my son as he still will sometimes snatch but it’s a process and constant guidance. I have a 16 year old stepson and my son who has just turned 3 and I still have to manage their sibling relationship, especially ensuring the 16 year old doesn’t feel like his younger brother has come in and stolen his thunder after used to being the youngest and only boy in a Sri Lankan family (I’m Italian/Australian my husband is Sri Lankan) The concept of also getting one child to give thing to other is a huge help too! I get my younger one to give things to his older brother (especially as in Sri Lankan culture it’s a big thing for the elder to be respected) so ensure my son looks after and gives respect to his older brother (e.g. you get a strawberry and go give one to your brother please) can be a game changer and makes that other sibling feel included and valued.
My oldest is 19 months old and starting to test boundaries, whine to communicate, and have bigger feelings anout things and I'm trying not to be a typical parent who threatens, bribes, etc. I also think thats icky. My second is almost 2 months old. It should get interesting
You mentioned that you're planning to homeschool your little ones. I'm also considering this right now and would love a video about your plans/anything you've learned thusfar :-) Congrats on your pregnancy!
Buy 2. Of everything. Teaches nothing. Breaks the bank. Saves my sanity 🤪 Luckily my kiddos (3 and 4) pretty much get along and share well independently. I find that explaining to my eldest that it might be easier for me to read Edward a book first so he can go onto bed and then he won’t be climbing all over us and interrupting her bedtime story stops her from feeling like I am just choosing him over her all the time xxxx
Thanks for all the tips, I will definitely get that book. I loved "How to Talk..." already. What's the podcast episode with the authors you mentioned? I can't seem to find it.
Not about this video but did you say on insta that your 1,5 year old is potta trained? How did you do that? My girl is 1 year 2 months. Do they need to walk before I can train? 😅
I’m going to do a video about it this month!!! Practice, start with “transition times” when they wake up is the best time to try. In the morning and after nap. I’ve found just getting them used to sitting on the toilet is the best thing you can do! When mine says no she means it. When I ask and she doesn’t say anything I try And it’s a lot of me asking every 2 hrs. For the first few months she never told me
Get 50% off your 1st order of *Hiya* www.hiyahealth.com/heyshayla
I loved Siblings Without Rivalry too! I think my favorite tip for really small sibs (it’s in the afterword) was to narrate their positive relationship for them - tell them “you’re a good team” or, if they get upset “you were having so much fun together and you didn’t expect this to happen.” It gives them an understanding that their relationship is basically good to return to when they are struggling.
👏👏👏👏 yes thank you for adding this!!
Oh, I love this topic! I think having more than one child gives a parent an opportunity to teach skills that are fabulous for development. You have your own mini classroom! (I'm such a teacher lol)
Your tip about giving them space is a great one for my kids too. We have separate quiet time each day, even though my oldest is 10 years old. She deserves some quiet time away from her 6-year-old brother.
My personal biggest tip for parents of multiples is to use what is called "positive intent." For example, I say "you wanted your sister's attention, so you kept poking her. Instead, stand near her and say 'excuse me'." This allows them to learn the skill to get what they want. Once they learn the skill, you have to interfere less and less.
👏👏👏 love this
The most lightbulb-moment tips for me were not sharing and having them help each other! My mom never did that with me and my siblings, and I remember SO many ENDLESS fights over sharing or not sharing. And she never encouraged us to help each other. I want to do that!
Ty for being a mommy blogger who adds value to the conversation and keeps her kids safe/out of it!
We follow these tips are things are going really well for the first 3 months! I definitely let the baby know that I’m going to put him down to help the toddler so the toddler knows they’re a priority too. I also leave the baby unsupervised with the toddler (2 3/4) when I go do something small which I believe conveys the message of “I trust you” and I tell baby that the toddler is taking care of them while I’m gone. I believe it also helps the toddler feel more ownership of the baby and that baby is the family baby, not just mine.
We do all these things! We also try to keep most/all of the toys as shared toys, not necessarily Kid A’s toy and this one is Kid B’s toy - they are all toys that we share. Basically we don’t emphasize that this toy is owned by this child and this toy is owned by the other child. Even if they got it for their birthday. I also remind the kids that we are a family and we love each other and it’s important that we are kind and gentle with each other. Usually that simmers things down and they hug after hearing that reminder. It helps a lot to just say things out loud to the kids that you want them to know is true or right - how else will they learn all these social normals within the family?
Love this!!!
Thanks to your ending I now have "She Will Be Loved" stuck in my head lol "It's not always rainbows and butterflies, it's compromise that moves us along." LOL! 😂
I like to encourage my toddler to show the baby how to do things (like raising your head, grabbing a toy, whatever). The toddler plays along every time! I think it really helps them get settled in their new "big sibling" role.
I just wanna say you have the best intro. Truly. I watch so much UA-cam but you have the best concise intro to your channel🎉
I have a 4 and a 3 year old. We do lots of games, activities, baking together to give them experiences of playing and working together. Praising the kids every time they do something kind, compliment them or helpful for the siblings, I’ll make a “gift” or card with one, and let them think of something nice to give to the other sibling and they feel like they did a nice thing for them after they give them the gift, and of course the one receding is stoked too!
Looooooove this!!! Totally, reinforcing the good!!
Someone with 3 girls said that they buy the same outfit for all 3 so they don't fight. Kids were on average 2 years apart from eachother. It was super cute - they were all in the same baiting suit at the beach.
Love that! But then when the oldest grows out of it you need to buy all three a new outfit
Yes! It’s less thinking too! I do this for my girl and boy too just cater whatever color it is they like. Ex, Pink jacket for girl, blue jacket for boy
"Talk to the baby about the toddler" 🤯
And the tip about asking the baby before taking the toy is very helpful too.
I needed this! My girls have the same age gap as yours (their birthdays are 2 weeks apart) and we've really struggled with the older hitting the younger one. Constantly. Whether she's bored, excited, antsy, needs attention, whatever she just walks up amd hits her sister. Definitely going to try some of these strategies. I was literally just crying to my husband wondering HOW to foster a good relationship between the two. Thank yoy!
Ugh that’s so hard! When one I’d move hit the other I try to focus on the one who got hit, over emphasis if they’re okay.
Then go to the hitter and tell them when they’re ready to say sorry they’re sister is waiting, but also that they can’t do much until they do
Also if they ever do kind things really emphasizing how kind they’re being
Adding another book to my TBR list! I get so many good book recommendations from you!! We already do the trading toys thing when the older wants what the baby is holding. Works great!
I think sticking up for your kids is huge. I feel like it was lacking or at least unsuccessful when I was growing up with an older sister. I felt pushed around or talked over often and it would have been nice if my older sister had actual consequences for what was, frankly, disrespecting another person. I just wanted it made unacceptable, and plan to do that for my second born if it kills me lol
I think fostering the ability to stick up for yourself is key. These tips address that.
I’ve definitely tried some of these.. personality is a BIG factor and boys are an even bigger factor… boys are from a different planet.
The exchanging for one for something else is a big one not just for siblings but for friendship development at playgroups/kinder etc. however it’s a work in progress with my son as he still will sometimes snatch but it’s a process and constant guidance.
I have a 16 year old stepson and my son who has just turned 3 and I still have to manage their sibling relationship, especially ensuring the 16 year old doesn’t feel like his younger brother has come in and stolen his thunder after used to being the youngest and only boy in a Sri Lankan family (I’m Italian/Australian my husband is Sri Lankan)
The concept of also getting one child to give thing to other is a huge help too! I get my younger one to give things to his older brother (especially as in Sri Lankan culture it’s a big thing for the elder to be respected) so ensure my son looks after and gives respect to his older brother (e.g. you get a strawberry and go give one to your brother please) can be a game changer and makes that other sibling feel included and valued.
Thank you! Baby number 2 on the way. This is very helpful
My oldest is 19 months old and starting to test boundaries, whine to communicate, and have bigger feelings anout things and I'm trying not to be a typical parent who threatens, bribes, etc. I also think thats icky. My second is almost 2 months old. It should get interesting
Thanks for these! Definitely needed this video.
This was an excellent video…thank you!
This was so fantastic!
Silent watcher here- Just wanted to say I freakin’ love you haha and I appreciate your content! ❤️
Great video 🎉
You mentioned that you're planning to homeschool your little ones. I'm also considering this right now and would love a video about your plans/anything you've learned thusfar :-) Congrats on your pregnancy!
I have a lot of learning to do. Aka I have no idea.
I plan on interviewing ppl on my podcast!!
great! I look forward to it. because I have no idea what I'm doing either 🙂@@heyshayla
Buy 2. Of everything. Teaches nothing. Breaks the bank. Saves my sanity 🤪
Luckily my kiddos (3 and 4) pretty much get along and share well independently. I find that explaining to my eldest that it might be easier for me to read Edward a book first so he can go onto bed and then he won’t be climbing all over us and interrupting her bedtime story stops her from feeling like I am just choosing him over her all the time xxxx
I NEEDED this today!
Thanks for all the tips, I will definitely get that book. I loved "How to Talk..." already. What's the podcast episode with the authors you mentioned? I can't seem to find it.
Episode 41!!
heyshayla.buzzsprout.com/1819031/11502054-041-tantrums-this-has-worked-so-well-for-us-how-to-talk-to-so-little-kids-listen-author
My second is the same way as yours 😊
I’m 14 weeks so a month behind you! Are you going to do any pregnancy updates with your third?
Totally!!
You look so healthy and beautiful!
Not about this video but did you say on insta that your 1,5 year old is potta trained? How did you do that? My girl is 1 year 2 months. Do they need to walk before I can train? 😅
She has videos about elimination communication you should check out 😊 we do elimination communication. I highly recommend.
I’m going to do a video about it this month!!! Practice, start with “transition times” when they wake up is the best time to try. In the morning and after nap.
I’ve found just getting them used to sitting on the toilet is the best thing you can do!
When mine says no she means it. When I ask and she doesn’t say anything I try
And it’s a lot of me asking every 2 hrs. For the first few months she never told me
Hey Shayla! When will you do a gender reveal? Or are you going team green this time?
Well know gender but keep it to ourselves until birth. I’m an over sharer but my husband is not so it was our compromise 😂🥰