Lately Big Sister’s really been getting under my nerves. Some of Mummy’s friends had come over for a chin wag and all they are going on about is how adorable Big Sister is, she’s a princess apparently. Whatever people, you’re BLIND, get yourself over to the closest opticians and get those eyes tested. I mean seriously Big Sister being considered a beauty, please I feeling like vomiting, Oops I think this morning’s porridge is coming up Mummy dearest. She’s a two faced that sister of mine, she laps up all the attention, there she sits in her little pink tutu  fluttering those extra long eyelashes, rose bud lips sucking on that lollipop Auntie So and So has given her because she’s just so perfect apparently. VOMIT VOMIT. Yeah what am I chopped liver people?...look look I can touch my toes and put my whole hand in my mouth, yeah I’ve got skills I’m not all fleeting looks and what not, I’ve got character. I shout and scream hoping some poor soul would give me some attention. Auntie what’s her face looks over at me, and shouts at Mum, I think the baby needs a diaper change. Whatever I think, I was actually showing off my numerous skills. Does she not realize that I’m one and half and I can sing the Happy Birthday song by memory so what if it’s only Happy Birthday I shout out, but’s its still the song people, I mean c’mon that’s pure Mensa material.

My mother’s jaded friends don’t look amused, instead the ooh’s and ahh’s are all wasted on that Big Sister of mine. Hey what happened to giving the baby some attention now and then. I came out all perfect, that’s what my Mummy dearest says all the time. Mum you need new friends not sure about the crowd you’re rolling with these days. Whilst the adults chit chat, Big Sister looks at me and goes why don’t you take a nap, no one’s interested in you, I’m their favourite, you’re just spoiling the mood with your nonsense crying. SEE SEE, I told them Big Sister’s not all care bear cuddly, She’s mean, vicious and all she’s missing are those horns from Maleficent. If I wasn’t strapped in my baby seat, I’d put her in an arm lock right now. All those hours of watching MMA with Just Dad has paid off. Instead all I can shout is “Shush” “shush” (my new word) at her. Oh dear Mum goes, looks like the baby is a little tired, I might have to put him, down. What Mother dearest you can be so dense at times, she’s been mean to me, she’s hurting my feelings. Don’t put me down for a nap. That’s been her evil plan all along, to get rid of me and get all the attention for herself. Help it’s working she’s brain washed Mum and Dad. As Mum carries me off Big Sister gives me a I’m the winner you’re the loser smirk. Whatever people, Teddy awaits in my crib for one, who wanted to hang out with a bunch of aunties who spoil you with candy and hugs anyways. Looks like Bis Sister’s won this round, but’s there’s always tomorrow!

Sibling Rivalry

While many kids are lucky enough to become the best of friends with their siblings, it's common for brothers and sisters to fight. (It's also common for them to swing back and forth between adoring and detesting one other!) Often, sibling rivalry starts even before the second child is born, and continues as the kids grow and compete for everything from toys to attention. As kids reach different stages of development, their evolving needs can significantly affect how they relate to one another.It can be frustrating and upsetting to watch — and hear — your kids fight with one another. A household that's full of conflict is stressful for everyone.

Why do kids fight?

Many different things can cause siblings to fight. Most brothers and sisters experience some degree of jealousy or competition, and this can flare into squabbles and bickering. Factors such as evolving needs, individual temperaments, desire for attention etc are some reasons why siblings fight.

What to do when there’s a fight?

While it may be common for brothers and sisters to fight, it's certainly not pleasant for anyone in the house. And a family can only tolerate a certain amount of conflict. So what should you do when the fighting starts? Whenever possible, don't get involved. Step in only if there's a danger of physical harm. If you always intervene, you risk creating other problems. The kids may start expecting your help and wait for you to come to the rescue rather than learning to work out the problems on their own. There's also the risk that you — inadvertently — make it appear to one child that another is always being "protected," which could foster even more resentment. By the same token, rescued kids may feel that they can get away with more because they're always being "saved" by a parent. If you're concerned by the language used or name-calling, it's appropriate to "coach" kids through what they're feeling by using appropriate words. This is different from intervening or stepping in and separating the kids. Even then, encourage them to resolve the crisis themselves.

By Mayuri Jayasinghe