Strengthening Sibling Bonds: How to Foster Communication Development Through Play

If you're a parent of multiple children, you’ve likely experienced the challenge of balancing your attention between them. Your older child may crave your focus, while your younger child watches their sibling’s every move with admiration. So how do you navigate this dynamic in a way that strengthens their bond and builds essential communication skills?

The answer lies in including siblings in play and communication-building activities—and the benefits are remarkable!

Why This Strategy Works

Encourages Communication Growth – Younger siblings learn by watching and imitating their older brothers and sisters. By engaging your older child in activities like singing or finger play songs, you’re giving them a leadership role in modeling communication skills.
Fosters Positive Sibling Relationships – Instead of feeling like they have to “compete” for your attention, your older child is given a meaningful way to interact with their sibling and earn your praise.
Gives Structure to Playtime – Your older child now has a purposeful activity they can do while you’re occupied with household tasks, making their time feel valuable and productive.

How to Include Siblings in Play

1. Praise Every Effort

For every bit of attention your older child gives their sibling, recognize it! Whether it’s a small gesture, like handing over a toy, or a bigger effort, like leading a game—let them know you see and appreciate it.

"I love how you’re showing your little brother how to stack blocks!"

"You’re singing that song so clearly! Your sister is learning so much from you!"

2. Use Finger Play Songs to Build Connection

Songs like The Wheels on the Bus or Itsy Bitsy Spider are perfect for encouraging gestures, rhythm, and turn-taking. Invite your older child to sing and do the motions with their sibling. Then, praise their efforts!

“Wow! You are showing her exactly how to do the spider movements—she’s watching you so closely!”
“I love how you’re singing so clearly! Your little brother is learning all the words from you.”

3. Give Your Older Child a Role

Empower them by making them feel important in their sibling’s learning. Try saying:

“Your sister is learning how to clap because she sees you do it! Can you show her again?”
“You are such a great teacher—look how your brother is copying your dance moves!”

4. Let Play Be a Go-To Activity

When you’re busy with daily tasks, this strategy helps guide your older child’s independent play while reinforcing their bond with their sibling. Instead of feeling like they’re left out, they now have a meaningful way to interact and earn your attention.

A Real-World Perspective

This approach works so well because younger children idolize their older siblings, and older children typically crave their parent’s attention. By tapping into these natural dynamics, you’re setting up a system where both kids feel valued, engaged, and connected.

Does this strategy resonate with your family? Have you tried it before? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments!