9 Expert-Approved Activities to Strengthen Sibling Bonds
In my last post, I talked about why siblings fight, how those behaviors can be unintentionally reinforced, and simple ways to encourage more positive interactions between siblings using principles from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite cooperative activities that help promote teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—all while making your kids laugh and connect.
These games and challenges are perfect for reducing sibling rivalry and building the foundation for lasting sibling friendships (yes, really!).
1. Cooperative Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course using items from around the house. The catch? Siblings must complete the course together—helping each other along the way.
One of our household favorites: The Floor Is Lava!
Fair warning: Throw pillows will absolutely not end up where they belong… and that’s okay. 😄
2. Synchronized Drawing
One sibling describes a drawing (without showing it), while the other attempts to recreate it based only on verbal instructions. Then, switch roles.
This is a great activity for communication skills and works well even in limited spaces like an office or waiting room.
3. Puzzle Partners
Give your kids a puzzle or Lego instructions, but split the pieces between them. They’ll need to share, ask, and collaborate to complete the challenge together.
Don’t forget to offer high-fives and praise as they progress!
4. Chore Challenge
Turn everyday chores (like setting the table or folding laundry) into a team challenge. Set a timer, assign roles, and encourage them to beat the clock together.
Reinforce teamwork with a fun reward like a special snack, game time, or choosing what’s for dinner!
5. Blindfold Snack Making
One sibling wears a blindfold while the other gives step-by-step directions to make a simple snack (think: PB&J, toast with toppings, or trail mix). Then switch roles!
This is a huge hit in our house—and it usually ends with lots of giggles (and maybe a little peanut butter on the counter).
6. Add-On Movement Game
One child starts with a movement (e.g., a jump or spin). The next adds a new move to the sequence. Keep adding movements until someone forgets or misses a step.
Bonus: Try this one on a trampoline or outside for extra energy burn!
7. Shared Storytelling
Start a story with one sentence. Then have your kids take turns adding a sentence at a time until the story is complete. The sillier, the better!
You can also try this with shared drawing or painting, building off each other’s ideas.
8. Tower of Trust
Using blocks or cups, siblings take turns adding pieces to a shared tower. If it falls, they must problem-solve together to rebuild it—no blaming allowed!
This game teaches patience, collaboration, and frustration tolerance in a playful way.
9. Gratitude Chain
This one might just be my favorite.
Create a station with blank strips of paper and markers. Encourage your kids to write kind words, affirmations, or compliments for their sibling. Each message gets added to a growing paper chain.
Once the chain reaches a certain number of links, unlock a big reinforcer—like a movie night, ice cream date, or special outing.
It’s a powerful way to build emotional connection and reinforce positive sibling behavior over time.
If you try any of these activities, I’d love to hear how it goes! Tag me, send a message, or drop a comment—I’m always cheering on your parenting wins.
Toodaloo from BeeHaven 🐝✨,
Dr. Doyle
