Sometimes siblings bring us upside down, they get on our nerves, we argue, we fight, especially when we are little. However, we do not know how to live without them, they alter and enrich us in equal parts.
Some psychologists agree that having a sibling is always beneficial for a child's development. Not only on an emotional level, but also on a cognitive level. Having two children is a challenge that can be well worth taking on.
Benefits of having a sibling
It is more than evident that having siblings it is beneficial for the psychosocial development of any child. This is the best way to learn to relate to others. Your child will learn with his brother to behave, he will be influenced by his example and will feel accompanied by him, developing a unique affective bond.
The cognitive benefit of having a sibling lies in the interaction. Children will play, learn from each other and together, looking for common solutions. This interaction does not only affect cognitive level, of course it has its influence on emotional development. Your child will feel less alone and will be less prone to problems with anxiety, distress, depression or fear. It is logical, since with a brother you will feel more accompanied.
It is also important to note that each of the siblings will assume a role, the most normal thing being that the oldest assumes the most protective. Although this is not necessarily the case in all cases, the role of protector is actually assumed by the stronger brother, the most capable and determined.
The challenge of raising siblings and what to avoid
As we have already said, it is a challenge to raise more than one child, especially if we take into account that it is increasingly difficult to meet all the emotional, economic and affective needs of a child. It will be worth it, do not hesitate. But you have to take into account some things that must be avoided so that the development of both is carried out in the best possible way.
It will also be necessary for you to mediate between the brothers when there are arguments and fights.
It is a myth that you should treat them the same, because each one will be different, they will need different things and you have to attend to their needs. What is essential is to avoid comparisons, as we have said, each one is different and has the right to be as he is, he is not more or less than his brother, at all. Your children need to develop each at their own pace, do not force them, this could create tensions between them and harm the development of that special bond that is created between siblings.
Feel the value of a brother
It is not only important to feel the company of a brother during childhood, while we are developing. Really we continue to grow throughout our lives and it is important to maintain that bond as we grow.
It is enriching to know that you can count on that adventure companion, who protected you from nightmares or wardrobe monsters. With that poetic storyteller, who, later, used to sing with you in adolescence. It is essential to know that one day you will be able to return all that wealth that it has brought you, because you have the honor of knowing that it is your family.