The Nice Advice by Leah Albert

Dear Leah,

I have a problem. It’s my sister, she’s always getting me in trouble. 

My parents always blame me because I’m the oldest by two years. It’s OK if she does something to me, but it’s not OK if I do something to her. I’m sick and tired of her treating me like this, and if I tell my parents it’s just the same old talk, plus they don’t even believe me. I would spend one hour cleaning my room and she would just drop everything everywhere. She acts like she is the boss but she’s not. What should I do? 

You’ve probably heard these stories before. I just need a little advice. I don’t know who to go to.

 

Signed, 

Bummed Out Big Sis

Dear Sis,

As an only child, I might not necessarily know what you’re going through but I do know how to handle conflicts. You should definitely have a talk with your little sister about the way she has been acting.

But, do not discuss the situation when you are feeling angry, frustrated or upset.

Try to listen to your sister’s side, and then tell her about your feelings. You might learn, for example, that she resents the privileges you have as the older sister or she’s frustrated — that she never gets to be first in anything.

If the situation doesn’t change, you should probably have your whole family sit down and address the situation calmly.

Express your concerns and explain that you feel that you’re being unfairly blamed for situations that are not your fault. If no one in your family will listen, think about another adult you can talk with — perhaps an older cousin, an aunt, a grandparent or a teacher.

 

Take care!

Leah

 

Leah Albert is a fictitious character. She likes wine and writing. Don’t ask her to be a matchmaker. Do send your questions to Leah at theniceadviceleahalbert@gmail.com.