Summer break is supposed to be full of sunshine, laughter, and relaxation—but if your tween and teen daughters are constantly at each other’s throats, it can feel more like a never-ending battle than a vacation. Sibling rivalry is normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to endure it all summer long. With a few smart strategies, you can reduce the fighting and create a more peaceful (and fun!) season for everyone.

1. Set Clear Expectations Early

Before summer even starts, have a family meeting to set some ground rules. Instead of just saying, "No fighting," make it more specific:

• "We respect each other’s space and belongings." (No borrowing clothes without asking!)

• "We use kind words, even when annoyed." (No name-calling or eye-rolling.)

• "If you need space, say so—don’t just snap."

When expectations are clear, there’s less room for arguments.

2. Give Them Space (Literally)

Being stuck together 24/7 is a recipe for bickering. Help them create boundaries:

• Alternate "alone time" in shared spaces (one gets the living room in the morning, the other in the afternoon).

• Encourage separate activities (one goes to a friend’s house while the other has the house to herself).

• Let them decorate their own zones (even if they share a room, let each have a corner that’s theirs).

A little breathing room goes a long way.

3. Teach Conflict Resolution (Instead of Solving It for Them)

It’s tempting to step in and play referee, but that often makes them rely on you to fix everything. Instead, coach them on how to handle disagreements themselves:

• "I hear you’re both upset. What’s a fair solution?"

• "Try saying how you feel without blaming." (Example: "I get annoyed when you take my stuff without asking.")

• If they’re really stuck, suggest a compromise (like setting a timer for shared items).

The more they practice resolving conflicts, the less they’ll involve you.

4. Plan Fun Bonding Activities (But Keep It Low-Pressure)

Forced sisterly love never works, but shared positive experiences can help. Try:

• Sister "dates" (let them pick an activity they both enjoy, like getting manicures or trying a new ice cream place).

• A fun summer challenge (who can learn the most TikTok dances? Who can read the most books?).

• A collaborative project (making a summer scrapbook, filming funny skits, or redecorating part of their room together).

Good memories can soften future arguments.

5. Stay Neutral (Don’t Take Sides!)

Even if one daughter is clearly more wrong, picking sides fuels resentment. Instead:

• Listen to both sides without interrupting.

• Acknowledge their feelings ("I see why you’re upset").

• Encourage them to find a solution together.

The goal isn’t to determine who’s right—it’s to move forward peacefully.

6. Let Them Vent (Without Making It Worse)

Sometimes, they just need to complain. Instead of shutting it down with "Stop fighting!", try:

• "I get it—siblings can be annoying. Want to talk about it?"

• "It’s okay to be frustrated, but let’s find a way to handle it."

Validating their feelings (without fueling the drama) helps them calm down faster.

7. Don’t Forget One-on-One Time

A lot of sibling rivalry comes from competition for attention. Make sure each girl gets individual time with you:

• Take one out for coffee or shopping while the other has a friend over.

• Let each pick a special activity just for the two of you.

When they feel valued as individuals, they’ll be less likely to take frustrations out on each other.

Final Thought: A Peaceful Summer Is Possible!

You’ll never eliminate all the bickering—but with patience, boundaries, and a little strategy, you can reduce the drama and make this summer your most enjoyable yet. The key? Less refereeing, more guiding.

What’s your best tip for keeping the peace between siblings? Share below—we’d love to hear what works for your family! 💕