Teaching Your Kids to Become Life-Long Friends

As the winter comes to an end, you have probably seen enough of your kids fighting or bickering with one another, and you might be discouraged. In this blog, I want to give you a few tips to keep in mind as you encourage your kids to become friends, instead of enemies. They are simple, practical tips that you can implement right away. So, let's get started...

*Encourage you kids to help out one another. As you ask them to serve one another, they will learn that the joy of serving far outweighs the joy of taking. They will learn to be in the habit of looking out for one another, which will do wonders for them as they grow.

*Do not punish them harshly for minor disputes. When kids receive harsh punishment, they tend to want to "get even" with their siblings. The result can be never-ending disputes between siblings and a lack of peace in the home. Instead, give reasonable punishment to lead them in the right direction.

*See "tattle-tailing" for what it really is. Most parents would see that tattle-tailing is simply annoying. But, it is actually a bigger problem than just an annoyance. It's children seeking the worst for one another, instead of wanting the best for them. At times, kids will tell on one another because they are actually looking out for each other. If one sibling is in trouble because of their actions or situations, another sibling can recognize it. My oldest is great at telling me if his youngest brother is doing something that could potentially harm him. And, I show him that I am grateful for his help. We need to teach children to always desire for the best for one another.

I believe if you follow these tips, you are on the right path for teaching your kids to become life-long friends.

Thanks for reading!

~Melissa Seng