Advice: What to say if someone wants you to break lockdown rules

All being under one roof can lead to more rows between siblings – Emma explains how to bring your children together

Helping your kids to manage their emotions has never been more crucial. First, realise that it isn’t your job to force your kids to get on. There will be times when they can’t stand each other, and that is OK. Instead of mediating, accept that they need space until their moods lighten.

Kids need to figure their own way through conflict without you always babysitting their meltdowns. Whatever the row, it will always be the other sibling’s fault, so unless you witnessed it, avoid “He said, she said” discussions. Suggest they either work it out or do something separately for a bit. Creative play can ease tension – encourage them to paint, draw or colour, or give older children a DIY project, from moodboarding to painting. Give each child daily one-to-one time, as when they are overwhelmed they can externalise emotions by getting angry. They need a safe space to discuss their feelings. Exercise has been the main way I have managed my hormone-raged teens in lockdown.

Get kids playing in the garden or stream free fitness classes on YouTube. If you want your kids to work as a team, suggest a project for them, like planning family meals, or trips to take together once we can travel. Finally, notice the good things your kids do together – often we fail to reward them when they are playing nicely, but are quick to react when they are at each other’s throats. Reinforce positives, and good behaviour will become much more commonplace.