If you have a child with special needs (like autism or other learning disorders), a lot of your time and energy will go to understanding his condition and giving him support. But what about his brothers and sisters? They may sometimes feel resentful of all the attention he is getting, or think it's unfair that they are not treated equally. 'How come he doesn't get punished if … [Read more...] about How to help siblings of special needs children
family relationships
How to prepare your child for the new baby
Toddlers have a hard time dealing with abrupt change, even if it's something as mundane as a new kind of food. No wonder a new baby in the family can turn their world upside down! 'Sometimes, what we interpret as sibling jealousy is really just being overwhelmed. Mommy and daddy are behaving differently, routines have changed, and there's a complete stranger too,' explains … [Read more...] about How to prepare your child for the new baby
Benefits of having older siblings
When I became pregnant with my second child, I spent a lot of time worrying about how my son would deal with having a baby. Would he get jealous? Make her cry? Compete for attention? I should've been more optimistic. My son adjusted to his new sister, and despite the occasional fight over toys and attention, the two adore each other. New research also shows that babies … [Read more...] about Benefits of having older siblings
How to deal with difficult family members during reunions
You love your family, but let's face it: sometimes they can drive you crazy. Some relatives are downright toxic to be with. The overcritical aunt who has a knack for sandwiching a compliment between two cutting insults. The clingy mother who makes you feel guilty, somehow, for actually having your own life. The bossy brother who likes to act like he knows everything, and has … [Read more...] about How to deal with difficult family members during reunions
How to deal with irritating in-laws
Are your in-laws driving you crazy? Do they meddle too much, make mean comments or insults thinly disguised as insults (such as, 'That dress is really nice, dear, it hides your fat thighs.') Maybe they're overcritical, and find fault in everything you do. … [Read more...] about How to deal with irritating in-laws