Q&A for How to Care for Younger Siblings

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How do I get my kids to get along with each other?

Fernando Campos
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Fernando Campos is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Founder of Avant-Garde Therapy in Davie, Florida. Fernando has over 11 years of experience and offers telehealth, individual therapy, couples counseling, teen therapy, and family therapy programs. He has worked as a community educator on the topics of intimate partner abuse and trauma, anger management, family engagement, and counseling within alternative education. He is trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), Solution Focused Therapy, and BSFT (brief strategic family therapy). Fernando holds a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University.

Fernando Campos

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Expert Answer

Create an atmosphere of rules and standards that makes it easier for them to get along, rather just having them try to find a way for themselves. If parents establish good house rules, standards, and practices, that will instill a higher likelihood that their children will be respectful and understand boundaries.

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Question

How do you help a younger sibling with depression?

Fernando Campos
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Fernando Campos is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Founder of Avant-Garde Therapy in Davie, Florida. Fernando has over 11 years of experience and offers telehealth, individual therapy, couples counseling, teen therapy, and family therapy programs. He has worked as a community educator on the topics of intimate partner abuse and trauma, anger management, family engagement, and counseling within alternative education. He is trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), Solution Focused Therapy, and BSFT (brief strategic family therapy). Fernando holds a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University.

Fernando Campos

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Expert Answer

That's a very heavy burden for anyone to bear—always talk to one of your parents or ask for professional help. That being said, connection is one of the best things that someone can do. Rather than trying to solve your sibling's depression, focus on trying to connect with them instead. The connection is often what alleviates the symptoms of depression, rather than the "solution."

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Question

How can I improve my relationship with my younger siblings?

Supatra Tovar, PsyD, RD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY #31949), Registered Dietitian, & Fitness Expert
Dr. Supatra Tovar is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY #31949), Registered Dietitian, Fitness Expert, and the Owner of Dr. Supatra Tovar and Associates. Dr. Tovar has worked in the fields of health education, clinical dietetics, and psychology. With over 25 years of holistic wellness experience, she practices Holistic Health Psychotherapy. She combines her psychology, diet, and fitness knowledge to help those struggling with depression, weight gain, eating disorders, life transitions, and relationships. Dr. Tovar holds a BA in Environmental Biology from The University of Colorado Boulder, an MS in Nutrition Science from California State University, Los Angeles, and a PsyD in Clinical Health Psychology from Alliant International University, Los Angeles.

Supatra Tovar, PsyD, RD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY #31949), Registered Dietitian, & Fitness Expert

Expert Answer

Well, do your best to be relatable and approachable! Dismissing your siblings will only drive a wedge between you two. There is a reason the young ones try to follow older siblings, and that is because of admiration! Be a good role model and be available!

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Question

What should I do when my younger sister is crying?

Community Answer

Figure out what's making them cry. They could be hungry, thirsty, or need a diaper change. Find an object that comforts them, like a getting their favorite pacifier or stuffed animal. If this doesn't work, try stroking them on the back or rocking them softly back and forth to quiet them down.

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