If a child...

If a child lives with criticism,

He learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility,

He learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule,

He learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame,

He learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance,

He learns to be patient.

If a child lives with praise,

He learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness,

He learns justice.

If a child lives with security, 

He learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval,

He learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,

He learns to find love in the world.

Author Unknown

Strengthening Sibling Relationships


Building a friendship between siblings is no easy task. Each family is different but you may have to be intentional to fend off the battles and strengthen relationship. Sometimes at dinner, we'll go around the table and say one positive thing about each family member - something we've noticed about him or her that is particularly attractive, maybe a strength or a gift. The idea is to take the time to intentionally build one another up in love. 


You can also teach your kids to demonstrate their love for their siblings by praying for them. If I'm putting my son and his brother has been a real bothering all day, I'll say, "Why don't you pray for your brother tonight? He had a really hard day" Prayer keeps things in perspective and fosters love for the other person. 


At the same time, look for opportunities in which your children can serve each other. For example, if I'm busy and I notice one of my kids is struggling to do something or is calling for me, I may suggest to the older child to please help your little one. Afterwards I'll affirm him, letting him know what a sweet big brother he is. 


You can also encourage loving relationships between your kids by helping them to focus on the long term. Tell your children about one of the best friends you had as a child, and describe all the fun things you did together. Then tell them how long it's been since you've seen or talked to that friend. Point out to them that friends are great, but family endures. Ask your kids this: Would you rather invest all your energy in watering and tending a flower that, while beautiful, lasts only a season? Or would you want to spend more of your time cultivating a tree that will grow throughout your entire life, one that can bring you joy during your childhood and shade in your old age? 


((taken from the book Creative Correction by Lisa Whelchel))

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