It’s something that really does seem inevitable, and really it’s almost a cliché- siblings bicker and fight.   While it doesn’t have to be that way, sometimes personalities do clash.  Sometimes however, some simple things may prevent things from going to far.

• Let them resolve issues on their own.  When a parent steps in all the time, it can be hard to develop real conflict management skills.  While it may be hard to listen to, eventually it will get better.
• Let them know that they are both special, in their own ways.  Many times siblings will feel jealousy over the talents of the other(s). By helping the ‘left out’ child develop their own skills, it can prevent this from becoming too large of a problem.
• Have one on one time.  Especially when children are younger, having dedicated one on one time with their parents can help understand where they are coming from, and help them work out potential issues beforehand.

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What makes someone a “real friend”?

“A true friend has my back and will stick with me no matter what. He keeps my business private, and he appreciates and respects me.”–Justin, 11

“The friends I’m closest with are always truthful, even when the truth may hurt. They are always looking out for my best interests.”–Lucia, 14

When it comes to the middle school years, it can feel like everything is changing at once, especially friendships. Will you still be friends with the kids you were close to in elementary school? How will you make new friends? And what is a real friend, anyway?

Written by an expert on tween and teen issues, REAL FRIENDS VS. THE OTHER KIND offers insider information on making friends, resolving disputes, and dealing with common hazards of the middle school social scene–like gossip, exclusion, and cyberbullying. There’s also expert advice on crushes, peer pressure, and being there for friends who need help. Filled with character narratives, quizzes, quotes from real kids, and resources, this book is a survival guide for the middle school years.

REAL FRIENDS VS. THE OTHER KIND offers middle schoolers helpful, realistic advice on how to:

• Identify what being a friend means to you–and what it doesn’t.
• Stand up for beliefs and resolve conflicts with friends.
• Deal with peer pressure, especially from someone you consider a friend.
• Reach out to friends who seem to need help.

“This book lays out a guide for finding out who your real friends are with added tips on how to be a great friend.”
–Joe Bruzzese, author of A Parents’ Guide to the Middle School Years

Press