8 of 8

LESSON 2 · Sibling Wars to Sibling Peace

Coach, Don't Confiscate

Grabbing the toy ends the noise but teaches nothing. Coaching takes longer and builds a real skill. The script:

  1. Safety first: "No hitting. Step back."
  2. Name the want: "You both want this. That's frustrating."
  3. Ask them: "What could work for both of you?"
  4. Step back and let them negotiate.
  5. Return only if it heats up again.

Kids who learn to settle things with a sibling grow into adults who can handle a tense coworker or a touchy partner.