Bringing Out the Best in Your Child child | Page 9

My 4 year old son is jealous of my newborn son . Is this normal and what can I do about it ?
It is completely natural for your child to be jealous of a new baby . In fact , I doubt there is a child in this world who has not been jealous when a new sibling arrives . Your goal is to help your child manage that jealousy so love has a chance to grow , and to win out . The first thing you can do is make him the hero in the eyes of the baby . Tell him you will be you little brother ’ s role model and he will look up to you . Next , Make sure your son knows he still has an important role in the family . Reinforce all the wonderful things about who they are and how they contribute to the family . Lastly , try to keep your kids ' routines the same as they were before the baby as much as possible . This will provide a barrier against the anxiety of so much change .
My son and I are constantly fighting . How can we get along better ?
This question is very common and I have one word for you : communication . Communication is key to any relationship . Let your son know you ' re listening . When he is talking about concerns , stop whatever you are doing and listen . Express interest in what he is saying and listen to his point of view . Let them complete their point before you respond . Respond in a way your son would like to hear . Soften strong reactions ; they will tune you out if you appear angry or defensive . Lastly , notice times when your kids are most likely to talk for example , at bedtime , before dinner , in the car and be available . Wish you all the best !
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My 4 year old son is jealous of my newborn son . Is this normal and what can I do about it ?

It is completely natural for your child to be jealous of a new baby . In fact , I doubt there is a child in this world who has not been jealous when a new sibling arrives . Your goal is to help your child manage that jealousy so love has a chance to grow , and to win out . The first thing you can do is make him the hero in the eyes of the baby . Tell him you will be you little brother ’ s role model and he will look up to you . Next , Make sure your son knows he still has an important role in the family . Reinforce all the wonderful things about who they are and how they contribute to the family . Lastly , try to keep your kids ' routines the same as they were before the baby as much as possible . This will provide a barrier against the anxiety of so much change .

My son and I are constantly fighting . How can we get along better ?

This question is very common and I have one word for you : communication . Communication is key to any relationship . Let your son know you ' re listening . When he is talking about concerns , stop whatever you are doing and listen . Express interest in what he is saying and listen to his point of view . Let them complete their point before you respond . Respond in a way your son would like to hear . Soften strong reactions ; they will tune you out if you appear angry or defensive . Lastly , notice times when your kids are most likely to talk for example , at bedtime , before dinner , in the car and be available . Wish you all the best !

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