Every child deserves to feel loved, accepted and valued within the family. When children begin to believe that their parents favour one sibling over another, jealousy and resentment can gradually develop, sometimes creating conflicts that may continue into adulthood.
However, parents may sometimes need to compare certain behaviours or performances to understand the reasons behind a child’s poor performance, disobedience or other concerns. The purpose should be to identify the root cause, provide proper guidance and make necessary adjustments, rather than shame, embarrass or label the child.
Constructive correction should never become a tool for creating competition among siblings. Parents and guardians should encourage children to appreciate, support and celebrate one another. Healthy sibling relationships often begin with the examples children see at home.
A security-conscious parent understands that fairness does not always mean giving every child exactly the same thing. It means ensuring that each child receives the love, attention, guidance, discipline and support appropriate to their individual needs.
Parents should therefore be careful about the words they use, the way they discipline their children and the attention they give to each child. A child who constantly feels rejected or less important may develop emotional wounds that affect their confidence, relationships and behaviour.
Give every child a reason to feel at home. Correct with wisdom, love with fairness and never deliberately create competition where there should be cooperation.
Quote:
“Parents should show equal love to their children and avoid creating a sense of preference for one over another.”
Just be good. Reflect. Stay alert.
Author
Moruf Yusuf (Ojogbon)
ANIPR, MISN, FCAI, FIIM, MSPSP
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