Sibling Rivalry and Competition

Kids compare themselves to each other all the time. It's natural and unavoidable. But as parents, we need to make a determined effort to steer clear of comparing our offspring with one another.

This doesn't mean you can't openly celebrate each child's successes. You want your kids to be able to enjoy each other's accomplishments. Be sure and help them recognize that there are lots of definitions of success. A child who gets straight As is successful, but so is his sibling who has worked hard and has improved his grade in a difficult subject.

It's also important to avoid pigeonholing your kids. Even if your son is a natural athlete and your daughter loves studying, that doesn't mean your daughter can't succeed on her soccer team or your son can't become a "mathlete."