I don't get enough time with my mum or dad

Siblings need attention from parents

It is very common for siblings not to get enough time with a parent. But getting time with your mum or your dad is really important.

Children and young people feel good if they get some special time each day with a parent.

Siblings like parents to set aside time just to be with them. It makes them feel loved and cared for.

It is normal to feel jealous

Many siblings feel jealous that their brother or sister gets more time from a parent. They understand that the other child needs more help with things but it still feels unfair. It is normal to feel jealous.

'I felt that Anya was getting all the attention, even though it was in a bad way, but she was getting it.' Beth

Tips

Ask your parent if he or she can spend a little bit of time with you each day.This may be when your brother or sister has gone to bed.

Does your brother or sister use respite care or go to stay with another family sometimes? Ask your parent if you can do something special together at this time - like going shopping, or going to a café, or going swimming.

Tell your parent that you would like him or her to watch you in the school concert or at sport's day or some other special event.

Write down some things you would really like to do with your parent and show him or her your list.