Summer in Willmar is a time for sunshine, swimming, and—if you're a parent—refereeing a few more sibling squabbles than usual. While longer days and more family time are a gift, in the summer, spending more time together can lead to increased arguments and competition among siblings. It's totally normal, but with a few simple strategies, you can keep the peace this summer.
1. Give Them Space (Literally and Figuratively)
Spending every waking minute together can wear on even the closest siblings. Try scheduling individual activities and alone time for each child throughout the week. Maybe one gets a solo trip to the library while the other hangs out with a parent at the park. Giving kids their own "breathing room" can work wonders in reducing friction.
2. Teach the Art of "I" Statements
Kids aren't born knowing how to handle conflict—they learn it from us. Take time to teach and model conflict resolution skills, like using "I" statements instead of blaming. For example: "I feel upset when you take my toy without asking" is a lot more constructive than "You're mean!" Practicing this at home helps kids develop tools they can use with their siblings, friends, and beyond.
3. Set Clear Expectations (and Stick to Them)
Before tempers flare, set some house rules around behavior and make sure your kids know them. Be clear about what will happen if arguments get out of hand, and be consistent when enforcing those consequences. Knowing the rules ahead of time helps kids think twice before turning a disagreement into a full-blown WWE match.
4. Get Them Working Together
It might seem counterintuitive, but planning cooperative games or projects that require teamwork can actually strengthen sibling bonds. Whether it's building a fort, completing a puzzle together, or working together to complete a scavenger hunt, focusing on shared goals can replace rivalry with camaraderie.
Bonus Tip: Find Support at the YMCA
Sometimes, a little outside help goes a long way. Programs like YMCA Summer Day Camp, youth sports, and swim lessons not only get kids active but also help them build social skills, patience, and teamwork—all things that can make life at home a little smoother.
Remember: a few arguments here and there are perfectly normal. But with a little preparation (and a lot of patience), you can help your kids turn this summer into a season of growth—both individually and together.