Since Cain and Abel, sibling rivalry has been a problem for families. Sure, kids will be kids, and brothers and sisters will pick at each other; but for parents, the constant battling can be stressful!

Try these suggestions for calling a truce between sibs:

Make each child feel special. Some kids act up to get your attention. Do whatever it takes to make each child feel loved and secure. Be careful to avoid taking sides or favoring one child over another (it happens). If a fight escalates to where you have to get involved, do so without worrying about who did what. Instead, separate the kids and take away whatever it is they’re fighting about. Don’t blame one or the other for “starting it.” It takes at least two people to fight…

Enforce house rules. Simply do not allow siblings to hurt one another — no kicking, hitting or biting. Teach them to respect one another’s property — no taking without permission, and no damaging a sib’s belongings.

Help your kids learn to manage their anger. Without saying, “I expect you to know better, you’re older,” try to teach each child various ways to handle their feelings. They can walk away from a dispute or try settling it fairly by taking turns or drawing straws.

Talk nicely to each other. Compliment your children when they’re kind to each other. Don’t allow name calling.

Encourage your kids to be supportive of their brother or sister. Remind them that blood is thicker than water, and that sometimes family is all you have!

There’s nearly a month of summer vacation left, so do something fun and educational without a big investment of time or money. A simple day trip is a great way to bond as a family and maybe even learn a thing or two.

Nature lovers
Venture into the great outdoors and explore.  Whether in your own back yard or a nearby park, you’ll find an abundance of things to explore. See how many insects and birds you can identify. Collect leaves and wildflowers for craft projects or scrapbooking.

History buffs
Visit historical landmarks to learn more about your community’s history. Start at the library, where you can conduct a little research. While you’re at it, look up your own family heritage. Tracing your family tree may lead you to all sorts of interesting places, including courthouses and cemeteries.

Music aficionado
Expose your children to different genres of music. Summers are filled with outdoor music festivals – from steel drum bands to jazz concerts. Your kids may be surprised by how much they like other types of music.

Foodies
Visit a farm to see produce and livestock in their purest form. Tour a food factory to see how the food on your table is made.

Whatever you choose to do, it’ll be fun because you’re doing it together.

For more ideas, go to Affordable and relaxing vacation ideas near home.