Baffled Parent's Guide to Sibling Rivalry

AT last -- A well organized, easy-to-read and practical guide to coping with sibling rivalry! Full of wit and humor, this book lays out the most common areas of friction between kids growing up together, explains what's really going on, and provides expert and practical advice on what to do. There isn't just one solution; parents are encouraged to choose the approach that works for them. As the mother of four, Marian Edelman Borden has had plenty of experience with her subject -- and somehow survived it. Her humor and clearheadedness shine through in her writing, and her sage, down-to-earth advice is -- well -- priceless. If you're a parent, this book is a MUST. It wouldn't hurt siblings of any age to read it, too.

This book really helped me not only understand, but also deal with sibling rivalry. The author offers good solutions for overcoming what can be a devisive issue in many homes. I have put what I learned from this book into practice and believe that is has made a positive difference in our family dynamics.

With three sons who are incapable of keeping their hands off one another, Ms. Borden's book has been a godsend. Helping me to understand when and when not to get involved and realizing that the rivalry does indeed teach them many lessons has been most valuable. Ms. Borden's style of writing is both informative and extremely enjoyable. A must for anyone with more than one child!!

This book offered very helpful practical advice, with a welcome touch of humor, on daily life with squabbling kids. The author's tips and tricks for ending the inevitable fights over sharing rooms, celebrating a sibling's birthday, and resolving holiday hassles, get right to the heart of the problem. Best of all, the solutions she offers work! Ms. Borden also tackles serious topics such as academic competition among siblings, blended families, and the difficulties faced by a sibling who has a brother or sister with a chronic illness or disability. In all cases, she presents families with options that they can adapt to their needs.

As the part-time working mother of two very active and competitive sons, I found Borden's advice very wise and helpful, as well as entertaining. Her scenarios and suggestions are right on the mark. All parents have problems dealing with sibling rivalry, and it's important to admit it. It won't just "go away;" what you learn here is how to deal with it. For example - if your kids (like mine) are close in age, and the same sex, it's important to teach them to "fight fair." It's also important not to get overly involved with the details of their arguments, and not to become hostile yourself (which is understandable... if it's 6 PM and you haven't started dinner yet!) Borden says kids whose parents are overly critical and argumentative will imitate their behavior, rather than try to do better.I came away from this book with new ideas and tips, as well as a personal pat on the back for things I've been doing well all along. I also loved the little sidebars written in the margins, which were a refreshing mix of old and new information.