Siblings are a great resource for learning. So what is your job? Give them several opportunities to share their knowledge.
You probably expect little siblings to rely on their big brothers and sisters for important information like the days of the week. But older siblings are just as likely to ask younger ones for help too. “Hey, how did you keep that from falling down?” To keep the lines of communication open, follow this simple advice.
Just let them play
Long stretches, such as, 60 minutes of uninterrupted time together help your kids realize that they have a lot to learn from one another. Try not to interfere with their interactions with requests such as, “Can you play in the living room?” Also, avoid attempts to direct them.
Pass the Torch
When one child asks you for help with something another has mastered, say, “Chris, you are so great at writing your name. Can you teach Joe how to do it?” That reinforces the idea that your kids can get assistance from a sibling.
Correct in Private
What if you overhear one child telling the other that a year has 10 months? Instead of calling them out directly, take him aside, gently correct him and encourage him to update his sibling. He will be able to show his brother how to own up to mistakes, another very worthwhile lesson.
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