A common problem with more than one child is separating your time equally as a parent. Try these tips to avoid problems with sibling rivalry.

1. Give each child individual attention. Set aside a few minutes each day to spend with each of your children on their own. This makes them feels special in their own right.

2. Never compare your children. Nobody ever wants to be held up against their older or younger brothers or sisters. Comparisons are divisive and set your children against each other.

3. Encourage separate interests. Your children are less likely to feel jealous of each other if they spend some of their time on different leisure activities.

4. Try to give them tasks that involve co-operation. Ask them to tidy their toys away or to set the table together. Advise them how to help each other so that they complete the task.

5. Resolve conflicts. When your children bicker with each other, sit them down, calm the situation and help them sort out their differences. They'll learn from your advice.