The Freeman

The Bond Between Siblings

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Just like the Vietnamese proverb: "Brothers and sisters are as close as hands

and feet." This realizatio­n occurred to me as a parent at the hospital when my three-year-old son met his newly born

baby sister for the very first time. With just an informal introducti­on between the siblings, it was clear that a beautiful

relationsh­ip between the two had already begun.

My first observatio­n was the way the older sibling automatica­lly adapted his speech to adjust to his little sister, much like baby talk. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry with tears of joy watching them! It is just amazing how one sibling can instantly adjust to the other without really being told or taught to do so.

A good, lasting relationsh­ip between siblings may have to do with how their own parents handle them. Children listen and see for themselves first- hand and follow (at most times) what is being told to them. I believe that a bond develops early in the family and helps in shaping the kids' behavior towards each other. Well, it works for most at least.

I have seen this attachment theory working with my kids. Seeing their developing relationsh­ip is such a source of comfort for me. I know they will be there for each other. We parents will of course try to nurture the positive bond.

My hope is for my two children to create a strong sibling relationsh­ip and for this relationsh­ip to go on throughout their lives. Then I will feel to have attained some success as a parent.

 ?? My Harvey and Fiona (photo taken by Marmie Wistehuff) ??
My Harvey and Fiona (photo taken by Marmie Wistehuff)
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