5 tips to combat sibling jealousy: An open letter to Wills and Kate

Today we have a little letter for you – from me to Kate and Wills! Yes it is a little tongue in cheek, but it should help anyone who is worried about the introduction of a new baby into the family. It isn’t an easy time, but I hope we can help. For more articles on the site about this; we do have a few that are relevant to siblings, so do take a look. This one in particular about introducing a new baby to a sibling is a good place to start.

Congratulations on the birth of your new daughter! She’s a beauty and I hope you’re all bonding with your baby nicely at home.

I bet you’re doing your best to make sure George doesn’t feel left out with all the attention being lavished on Charlotte. I totally get that! With only 19-months between my two I was acutely aware that my daughter was still almost a baby herself when her brother arrived, and as much in need of me as ever. It doesn’t matter if they’re third in line to the throne or third in line for the slide at the park, kids want to feel that they’re the centre of their parents’ universe at that age – at any age, really.

Jealousy is normal

First let me say that it’s natural that George may feel jealous. It’s no reflection on you or your parenting if he throws a few tantrums – it’s just what kids do when their noses are out of joint and they don’t yet have the ability to express their frustration in a less ear-splitting way. Ask your parents and they will probably say you both reacted the same way when your younger siblings usurped your position as the smallest and cutest in the family.

I’m sure you’ve given George a special big brother gift (there’s nothing like a present to take the sting out of things!) Whether it’s a “World’s Best Big Brother” t-shirt or a truck, it’s a good way to recognise and celebrate his new position in the family. Just be careful not to overegg the pudding because a) he might not be too thrilled to be a “big” anything; and b) you might create a monster who will start to feel resentful of his sister if he doesn’t get placated every time he throws a wobbly.

Make time together

It’s important that you and George have time on your own. He’s still adjusting to sharing his mum and dad, so spend time doing things you like doing together like playing with his toys, feeding the ducks, or cuddling up with a book. Now is the time to call in support from friends, Godparents, and grandparents. Ask them to look after Charlotte so you can spend time with George, and ask them to do things with George as well. He needs to know that although things have changed that he is still just as important to those he loves.

Expect a few bumps

George will be going through a huge transition from only child to sibling and it’s probable that he will take a few steps backwards along the route to acceptance. The good news is that toddlers have short memories so it won’t be long before he forgets what life was like without Charlotte in it!

Give a helping hand

My daughter loved “helping” with her baby brother. She felt important if she was the one who gave him the toy that stopped him crying, or helped me gently pat him dry after his bath. Allowing George to be involved with Charlotte’s care is a really effective way to foster a strong sibling bond that will last a lifetime.

Go with the flow

Finally, trust your instincts. You’re clearly loving and involved parents with lots of support from your family. You know better than anyone how to take care of your growing brood. These early days are so precious and far too fleeting and I hope you’re enjoying every moment of them.

I hope you like this letter to the royals – but do YOU have any advice for them too? We would love to hear from you too if you do. Give us a shout out on social media, either Twitter or Facebook, or perhaps you would like to leave us a comment below.

Sharing is caring!