With today's economy forcing parents to work longer hours, meaning more time away from our families, trying to make best of our precious quality time can sometimes be challenging.
What can also make it worse is trying to get your kids to sit down together to play games, when all they seem to do is bicker.
Here are a few ways to tone down the rivalry and strengthen your family's bond on game night.
1.
Boredom is often to blame for sibling rivalry; one child may bother the other simply for his own amusement.
Take turns on who chooses which game to play so that each may have a say in how quality time is spent.
2.
Set rules and stick by them.
Whether they are rules included in a board or card game, or ones you make up as a family; being very clear on boundaries will eliminate further disputes.
Don't forget standard house rules too.
Hitting and yelling are never acceptable.
3.
Allow your child to express his frustrations.
Showing empathy toward a child's feelings helps to show them that their emotions are valid.
Encourage the child to use his words to express his feeling toward without fighting.
4.
Spending one on one time with each child is also extremely important.
Each day take a moment to focus individually on each child.
Jealousy is often the root of many sibling rivalries, and by showing each child how much you care will cut down on jealous tendencies.
Try playing a game, boys against girls, then switching to give each child time with both parents.
While sibling rivalry is very common and can make their playtime together counterproductive, taking the time to instill a few positive views and values in your children's minds, can make for a more peaceful home.