Whether we like it or not, our younger siblings look up to us. I am far from perfect at any of these things, but here a just a few ways to be the role model your little brothers and sisters already see you as.
Treat them like friends, not inferiors.
Let me be the first to say I don’t always treat my siblings like I would a best friend. However, when it really comes down to it, friendships come and go, but your relationship with you brothers and sisters is a permanent thing. Why not invest in these lifelong friends? Make an effort of talking to your siblings with respect and dignity. How would your friends feel if you consistently told them what to do or always argued with them? Guess what? Your brother, that you just scolded, feels the same.
Ask them about their day.
If you know your sibling just went somewhere fun, ask her how it was. When your brother has a rough day at school, ask him how he’s feeling. After we moved from Thailand I started asking a couple of my siblings what the highlight and lowlight of the week was. Its amazing how quickly they were willing to open up and share with me. Just the small gesture of inquiring about their life can make your brothers and sisters feel so valued.
Do something they love.
Your brother likes to walk down to the store and buy soda? Go with him next time. You know how much your sister loves playing stuffed animals, take time to play with her. When your brother just invented a new board game, be the first one to try it out! Never act like spending time with them is a chore or your “good deed for the day.” Try to be enthusiastic about it and you might just find yourself actually having fun!
Share in everyday, mundane tasks.
So, you hate washing dishes, but you know what? Your little sister would be thrilled if you asked her for help. If you’re working on a project for school, ask your brother what his ideas and suggestions on it may be. He will feel good about giving his opinion and he might actually have some great ideas you never considered. You might avoid asking siblings to help you, fearing tasks will take longer, but they usually don’t and you will both enjoy working a little more if there’s someone to talk to.
Don’t complain in front of them.
“Mom he’s copying me!” We’ve all been through this. Siblings really do copy what we say and how we act. If you’re always whining about how things never go your way or why you hate this or that, chances are your little brother or sister will start mimicking you. You’d be surprised how quickly a negative attitude can influence the thoughts of those younger or even older than you. The same is true of an optimistic outlook. Instead of always finding flaws in things, look for ways you can speak positively about situations or people.
Make a point to include them in groups.
I’m not saying you need to let them tag along with you for every little thing you do, but inviting them to hang out with you every once in a while goes a long way. If you’re going with a group to the movies, you would be amazed how excited your brother would feel if you invited him to come too. When you’re about to play a board game with a couple friends, see if any of your siblings want to join you. Your friends won’t think your weird for including your siblings, they’ll just realize you care about others. If for some reason they do give you a hard time, well… maybe its time to find some new friends.
Listen to them.
I honestly know how easy it is to just tune out your little sister telling you (in extraordinary detail) about the newest episode of My Little Pony. However, more often than not, your younger siblings realize if you are actually listening to what they’re telling you or just nodding every once in a while. In your siblings' eyes, not caring about what they say often equals not caring about them, frequently ending in hurt and tears. Actually make the effort to listen and understand what they are explaining to you. Even better, think of questions you can in return ask to them. You may not actually want to know why Fluttershy is mad at Twilight, but you sister will be amazed and so happy if you care about the things she does.
My sister recently told me, “When my siblings are nice to me, it makes me feel so special!” if you’re looking for big ways to make an impact, start with those closest to you! You will be amazed at the difference you make in the lives your brothers and sisters! How are you positively impacting your home?