Here’s the truth: A sibling is a lifelong companion. They’ll likely be in a child’s life far longer than any parent will. Their relationship has the potential to shape a child’s development in powerful ways-sometimes even more deeply than our own relationship with them as parents.

Of course, sibling relationships come with their own set of challenges. Jealousy, rivalry, resentment, physical aggression, and frequent disagreements can take a toll on the entire family system. Left unaddressed, these conflicts can rob siblings of the full potential of their bond.

Potential for what, you might ask?

Becky Bailey is by far one of my favorite educational authors and can teach us so much about children’s social emotional development. She often discusses the power of noticing the good in each other and giving specific feedback as a way of encouraging positive change. What we focus on will grow. If we tell them what they are good at and attach feeling to it, change will happen.