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How can I support siblings to resolve fights calmly when tempers are high? 

Parenting Perspective 

Disagreements among siblings are a normal element of family dynamics, yet without proper guidance, these disputes can escalate into yelling, physical confrontations, or emotional distress. When emotions are high, children tend to respond instinctively rather than thoughtfully. The parent’s role is not to eliminate conflict but to assist children in managing it with fairness, clear rules, and emotional support. 

Begin by separating siblings momentarily if tensions are elevated. Once calm, allow each child to speak in turn while others listen attentively. Demonstrate reflective listening by saying: 

You feel upset because someone took your toy without permission. Is that correct? 

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Teaching Respectful Conflict Resolution 

  • Set expectations: no yelling, no physical harm, no name‑calling 
  • Use emotional statements like ‘I feel…’ to express frustration 
  • Offer strategies such as taking turns, pausing, or stepping away briefly 
  • Reinforce a family principle: ‘We solve issues through calm communication’ 

Some children may require extra emotional support depending on their temperament or development. With regular practice and patience, sibling conflict becomes an opportunity to learn negotiation, emotional regulation, and accountability in relationships. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam highly values reconciliation and harmony among family. Allah Almighty states in Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10: 

Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may receive His Mercy. ‘

This verse encourages believers to mend relationships and uplift one another with dignity. Siblings should be nurtured to view each other as partners in compassion, not rivals. 

It is reported in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4919, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught reconciliation: 

…It is putting things right between people; spoiling them is destructive. 

Share this teaching to illustrate that calming arguments is beloved by Allah Almighty. Encourage siblings to pray together: 

‘O Allah, help us be kind to one another.’ 

When children learn that reconciling earns spiritual reward, they begin to see peace not just as etiquette but as worship in action. 

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