Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 4: Address the problem immediately
• Method 2 of 4: Prevent the behavior
• Method 3 of 4: Ask your parents for help
• Method 4 of 4: Strengthen your bond
• Tips
• Warnings

Even though you love your siblings, sometimes they can annoy you more than anyone else on Earth. Problems with siblings can be frustrating and upset, and it can also create tension with the rest of the family. Figuring out how to have a better relationship with your siblings may take some time, but with a little patience and understanding, you can try to get better at avoiding arguments first.

To step

Method 1 of 4: Address the problem immediately

1. Ask your siblings why they act this way. One of the best ways to understand your siblings' actions is to ask them directly and politely why they are doing what they are doing. While their reason may not be a good excuse to annoy you, it can help you find a way to fix the problem.
   • For example, if you're trying to read and your little sister jumps on your bed or says your name over and over, you can put down your book and say, "Why are you doing that?"
   • In some cases, your siblings may annoy you to get your attention. If you overreact to what they do, you will reinforce the idea that they can get your attention that way. Instead, you could try to involve them in what you are doing.
   • Sometimes they can snarl or be irritated because they are nervous or afraid of something. Wait for them to calm down, then say something like, "Hey, I feel like something is bothering you. Do you want to talk about it? "Talking to you may make them feel better, so they may be nicer to you in the future.
2. Tell them how they make you feel. Sometimes siblings may not realize how unpleasant their behavior actually is. Whether something is hurtful or just really annoying, it's important for you to calmly express how you feel. In some cases, that can be enough to stop them from doing what they are doing.
   • For example, if you are annoyed because your brother doesn't want to play with you, you could say something like, "I don't like it when you let me out. How would you feel if I did that to you? "
   • If a sibling is very young, use simple, clear language to help them understand the situation more easily. For example, you could say, "It makes me angry if you interrupt my homework" or "I get sad when you call me names."
   • Keep in mind that this is by no means a guarantee that they will stop what they are doing. Sometimes they may even do something on purpose because they know it annoys you, especially if they are already mad at you.
3. Try to find a solution that makes both of you happy. If you have both talked about how you feel, it may be easier to resolve the problem in a way that is satisfying for both of you. Often you have to compromise, so you may have to be willing to give in a little to keep the peace.Remind yourself that in the long run you will all be happier when you get along better!
   • For example, say they disturb you because they want attention, but you have to study, then try to compromise. Tell them that if they leave you alone for an hour, for example, you can play any board game they want once you're done.
   • If one of your siblings continuously borrows your things without permission, you can indicate which things they can borrow, as long as they ask first.
4. Walk away if you start to get angry or upset. If you decide to confront your siblings directly, it's important not to let the situation escalate into a big fight. If you feel like you are getting emotional or losing your temper, take the time to be alone.
   • If a sibling starts to become physically aggressive, try to avoid the urge to push or hit him or her back. Instead, leave the room and tell a parent immediately.

   Tip: It can help to understand warning signs that someone is in a bad mood, such as raising their voice or turning red, so you know when it is better to avoid that person.

   
   

Method 2 of 4: Prevent the behavior

1. Talk to them about what behavior is or isn't right. A sibling may unintentionally annoy you because they don't understand what behaviors or actions are upsetting you. To avoid that, try to talk to him or her about which boundaries are right for you. If after this conversation that line is crossed again, go to your parents and ask them to intervene.
   • Your boundaries can relate to physical space, such as your right to privacy in your room or the safety of your belongings, but they can also refer to emotional space, such as the right to spend time alone or not to continue with a conversation that upsets you.
   • If a sibling has a habit of calling you names, identify words that hurt you most so that they can be avoided.
   • You may want your parents to be present when you discuss boundaries with your siblings. That can help show everyone how serious you are about the boundaries you set.
2. Avoid situations that upset them whenever you can. If there are certain situations that prompt your siblings to act unpleasantly, do what you can to avoid them. The easiest way to deal with annoying behavior is usually to prevent it.
   • For example, if they are extremely competitive, don't play games where you compete against each other.
   • If a sibling gets cranky with stress, give him or her plenty of room when he / she is under very pressure, such as studying for a test or preparing for an important game.

   Tip: Ask yourself how your attitude is affecting the situation. Apologizing and taking more responsibility for what you do can inspire your siblings to do the same.

   
   
3. Take a few deep breaths if you start to get upset. It may seem easier said than done, but keeping your cool when a sibling is annoying you can be an effective way to avoid a big fight. Even if someone is really annoying, it's best to take five deep breaths to stay calm. Then you can approach everything the other does in a calm way, instead of immediately going along with external emotions.
   • It can also help to slowly count to 10 in your head before saying anything.
   • You feel more relaxed when you sit or lie down, so if you know you're getting upset, sit down to help your brain realize it's time to calm down.

Method 3 of 4: Ask your parents for help

1. Have a close relationship with your parents. By treating your parents with respect, taking on your responsibilities, and following the house rules, you show your parents that they can trust you. That means if you come to them with a problem with your siblings, your parents are more likely to take you seriously.
   • Regular conversations with your parents about how things are going at school and with your friends can help you strengthen your relationship with them. You can talk to them even more often by talking about little things.
   • For example, if you're sitting on the couch with tea and cookies after school, you could talk about something funny that happened at school, like a teacher who dropped his coffee and even got coffee in his hair.
2. Consult with your parents if there is a serious problem with a sibling. You don't necessarily have to run to your parents every time your siblings annoy you. But if the problem has been going on for a while and the two of you can't resolve it, it can help to call your parents in. It's important to stay calm when describing the situation to your parents, so stick to the facts without getting overly emotional.
   • Be specific. Instead of coming up with a vague comment like "Peter is a jerk", say "Peter keeps interrupting me when I'm trying to study, and this test counts 20 percent towards my final grade."
   • If you've tried to fix the problem yourself, explain the steps you took and how the other person responded. For example, you could say, "I've asked him several times to wait until I finish my homework to watch his video game, but he's not going to leave me alone."

   Tip: Talk to your parents if they are not busy or distracted. If they are in a good mood and more willing to listen to you, they can handle the situation in the right way.

   
   
3. Let your parents determine the consequences if the sibling does not stop. Have your parents explain the specific types of punishment you will receive for deliberately irritating each other. That can be enough to avoid conflict, because when your siblings understand that they will be punished, they may decide that they shouldn't bother you anymore.
   • Keep in mind that these same consequences will apply to you too if you annoy them!
4. See if your parents can help you get some space. Sometimes you can get annoyed by siblings because you are forced to spend too much time together. It may not be practical to ask your parents for your own room, but you can still ask for some space and alone time if you need it.
   • If you share a room with your siblings, have your parents set a schedule so that you have some alone time in the room each week. Do the same with common areas, such as the family room, a hobby room, or the game room.
   • For example, your parents may say that you each get an hour of TV time a day alone, and while one sibling is watching TV, the other can only relax in the shared bedroom.
5. Suggest family gatherings to keep everyone on the same page. You may be able to avoid conflict with your siblings if you line things up regularly. Ask your parents to hold weekly or monthly meetings so that you all know about each other what each is up to. This can also be a good time to talk about any concerns you have about your relationship with your siblings, because everyone will have a fair chance to talk.
   • If you want to make the gatherings more fun, ask your parents to associate activities with them, such as baking cookies or eating together. This can help everyone to feel relaxed, so that everyone is more comfortable.

Method 4 of 4: Strengthen your bond

1. Spend time with your siblings so that your bond can grow stronger. Try to choose an activity that requires you to work together or that will create special memories. The closer you and the rest of the family can get together, the less likely you will be to annoy each other. Also make an appointment to spend time together regularly so that it becomes a habit.
   • Some collaborative activities include making a puzzle, making a kit, or preparing a meal for your parents. By working together, you learn to work together and spend your energy on something positive, instead of arguing.
   • If you and your siblings share a hobby or activity, try to find a way to make it special. For example, if you both enjoy cycling, invite him or her for a ride along your favorite path. If you like the same movies, plan a marathon of favorites just the two of you.
2. Be a supportive listener to your siblings. If siblings are bothering you because they want attention, taking a more active role in their lives can help. Interested in what they do at school, as well as anything important to them, such as hobbies and friends. Make sure they also know that they can talk to you if something is bothering them or you.
   • For example, if you notice that a sibling really looks down, you can take him or her aside and ask something like, "Did you have a rough day at school?" You can talk to me about whatever is going on. "
   • If it becomes clear that they are in some way in danger, such as that they are afraid of a bully at school, encourage them to talk to your parents or another trusted adult. You can even offer to join them during the conversation to make them feel more comfortable.
3. Open up about your life. Relationships are a two-way street, so if you want to be closer to your siblings, you also need to be willing to be open to them. Share as many details about your friends, hobbies, and favorite activities as you want and let your siblings know they can ask questions if they want to.
   • For example, you could tell a sibling that you have a crush on someone at school, even if you don't want anyone else to know.

Tips

• Friends come and go in your life, but siblings are forever. Even though it can be difficult at times, don't forget the importance of this relationship.
• Don't try to raise your siblings as they will only give it to you if you try to tell them what to do. If you are concerned about their behavior, warn your parents.
• Keep in mind that younger siblings may not be as mature as you, so try to be patient with them. More than likely, they will become less annoying as they get older.

Warnings

• Your parents can get annoyed if you bother them with every little problem. However, you should tell them if your arguments involve violence and physical threats, or if you have tried unsuccessfully to solve the problem yourself.