Your children’s relationship with each other is likely to be the longest and most powerful relationship they have ever had. However, there will likely be times when you feel like you are raising sworn enemies rather than loving siblings.

But rivalry between brothers and sisters is normal; disagreements can be important learning opportunities. And just because siblings fight doesn’t mean they can’t be close.

There are a few things you can do to strengthen bonds between siblings, whether they are biological siblings, step-siblings, or adopted ones. Research shows that siblings are an integral part of teaching each other how to interact in society.