Six more ways to encourage sibling play

Including a gem from my Dad and another from a 15-minute podcast episode

Here is yet another reason why it can feel strange to hand out advice about encouraging sibling relationships: from about as early in childhood as I can remember, my younger sister and I did not get along. I, specifically, was the one who pushed her away. It’s a wound in our past, and I wish I hadn’t been the cause of it.

But here’s the thing: almost as soon as I left for college, our relationship changed overnight, and in the second half of our life together she is one of my best friends. We talk for hours and I love and like and enjoy who she is.

All this to say: if you’re a parent with kids who seem indifferent — or even diametrically opposed — to each other, don’t despair. Whether restoration is just around the corner or on the horizon, there is always hope.

And in the meantime, I’ve got a few more strategies that might be helpful in your home today. Let’s dig in!