I read somewhere that having siblings is good for children because it forces them to compete for family resources – thereby building character.
Sounds rational, but harsh. Darwinian even.
As parents, we try to convince ourselves that we are capable of providing equal (and infinite) portions of love and resources for all of our offspring.
Mark KennedyDeep down, though, we know better. Our checking accounts only stretch so far, and one-on-one attention (which is often a proxy for love) must too be sliced like a pie.
I’ve watched our two sons, ages 12 and 17, for signs of sibling rivalry. Thankfully, there doesn’t seem to be much. I think the five years of separation helps. Our older son’s social and academic shadow doesn’t quite extend far enough to envelop his little brother, even though they attend the same middle-high school.