S4E3 - How Do I Stop Sibling Fighting and Rough Play?

Play Therapy Parenting: Real Parenting Questions Answered by a Child Therapist · Jun 17, 2026 · 13m · transcript

In this episode, I answer a question from a mom who is worried about the relationship between her four-year-old son and his younger brother. If you've ever wondered whether sibling rivalry, rough play, jealousy, or competition between siblings is normal, you're not alone. I explain some of the common dynamics that naturally emerge between siblings who are close in age, including power struggles, birth order influences, and why older siblings often have a difficult time adjusting after being "dethroned" as the only child.

I also share practical ways parents can respond when sibling conflict…