The In-Between Years with Dr. Sheryl

Sibling Drama Isn’t A Problem. It’s Practice.

Episode Summary

Sibling conflict isn’t a sign that something is wrong — it’s where your kids are learning how relationships actually work.

Episode Notes

One minute they're playing, the next they're snapping or shutting down. When your kids are fighting, it’s easy to wonder: What am I doing wrong? Should I step in… or stay out of it?

In this episode, Dr. Sheryl sits down with therapist and mom of seven Bridget KerMorris to unpack what’s really happening between siblings — especially when one child is entering the tween years and everything starts to shift.

Together, they explore:

• Why your older child may suddenly seem mean, distant, or unpredictable
• What younger siblings are actually experiencing (and often not saying)
• The difference between a pattern and a moment
• How to respond without taking sides or shutting things down
• What “repair” looks like, and why it matters more than getting it right

You’ll also hear simple, real-life language you can use in the moment—especially when your child says things like “It’s not fair” or “You love them more.”

Sibling conflict isn’t a sign that something is wrong — it’s where your kids are learning how relationships actually work.

Thank you to our partners for making this episode possible:

• Equip: Learn about Equip's at-home eating disorder treatment at equip.health/goodinside