From The New York Times
In a New York Times opinion piece, “Kids, Would You Please Start Fighting?”, writer Adam Grant makes the case that children can benefit from learning to argue. He suggests that when we step in to stop every disagreement, we may limit the development of creative problem solving.
Something to Keep in Mind
The next time the kids start bickering, it may help to remember that it might not be as bad as it feels in the moment. Disagreeing, listening, and working out a solution are skills children build over time.
When Conflict Is More Than Disagreement
Healthy disagreement is different from conflict that hurts. If arguments turn physical or cruel, if one child often feels targeted, or if a child seems frightened or withdrawn, it is worth talking with your child's pediatrician or a therapist. Family therapy and parent-focused therapy can help families find ways to handle conflict that work for everyone.
Related Care and Reading
- Child & Adolescent Therapy: Therapy for children and teens.
- Parent-Focused Therapy: Support for parents.
- Family Therapy: Support for the family as a whole.
- Children's Tantrums and What to Do About Them: A New York Times article on tantrums.
