Fun ideas and tips from the authors of “The Siblings’ Busy Book”

Just got my hands on an incredible sort-of sibling manual for kids between the ages of 8 to 13 called, “Siblings: You’re Stuck with Each Other, So Stick Together.” Brillant title, don’t you think?

This 100+ page small booklet has big type and plenty of illustrations to keep kids reading but tucked on each page are helpful tips and lots of “we know how it feels to be you to be you” lingo.

Siblings experts typically spend much of their time directing advice towards parents.  Lisa and I love that this book actually taps the kid on the shoulder and says, “Every idea in this book starts with you. That’s because getting along with others really comes down to being the best YOU you can be.”

Chapters include “Top 10 Sticky Situations and Survival Secrets for Sibs” and “5 Ways to Forge a Fabulous Friendship.” Space is also dedicated to showing kids how to handle jealousy, birth order and tips for bonding with a younger or older sibling.

Siblings are the testing ground for all present and future relationships. We love that this book has some empathy – kids need to feel understood especially when it comes to how annoying their little sister can be – but more importantly, the book teaches children how to be a good friend/sibling through cooperation, kindness and communication.

For the child who REALLY wants to know what siblings are good for…here’s a look at what the authors, James J. Crist, Ph.D., and Elizabeth Verdick had to say about that!

1. Siblings are there for you
2. Siblings can help you
3. Siblings know the real you
4. Siblings can share stuff with you
5. There’s more brain power
6. There’s room to grow
7. Siblings can look out for each other

Get this book and leave it somewhere one of your children will see it!

- Heather

Filed under: Parenting advice Tagged: | sibling fighting