Also, parents should be careful about this. If children feel they are getting unequal amounts of your attention, discipline, and responsiveness, it can lead to sibling rivalry. It usually continues throughout childhood and can be very frustrating and stressful to the whole family.
According to Sara Laule, MD, the best thing parents can do to avoid this is not playing favorites. "Try not to compare your children to one another," she wrote. "For example, don't say things like, 'Your brother gets good grades in math—why can't you?'"
Enjoying each of your children’s individual talents and successes is important as well, however, it should not get in the way of them forming a team. "Set your kids up to cooperate rather than compete. For example, have them race the clock to pick up toys, instead of racing each other."
