How to Help a Child Cope With Jealousy: Best Tips for Parents

Jealousy is a natural emotion that can be difficult for children to deal with. It can cause them to feel insecure and resentful of others. It’s common for them to feel jealous of their siblings or friends at times.

However, if left unchecked, jealousy can lead to problems in relationships and social circles. It can often lead to feelings of insecurity and self-doubt, so it’s important to nip it in the bud. This is why, as a parent, it is important to help your child learn how to cope with jealousy in a healthy way.

Read on for some tips for helping kids deal with envy in a positive way.

How do you help a jealous child?

Here are ten tips for parents on how to help their children cope with jealousy:

1. Acknowledge your child’s feelings. It’s important to validate your child’s emotions and let them know that it’s okay to feel jealous. Show  them that you understand what they’re going through.
2. Help them understand what jealousy is. Explain to your child that jealousy is feeling angry or unhappy because someone has something that you want. Help them understand that everyone feels jealous sometimes. It’s important for your child to know that jealousy is a normal emotion and that everyone experiences it from time to time.
3. Help them identify the source of their jealousy. Once you know what’s causing your child to feel jealous, you can help them find ways to cope with it.
4. Teach them how to express their feelings in a healthy way. It’s important for children to learn how to channel negative emotions. Encourage them to express their feelings in an appropriate way. It’s important to let your child know that it’s okay to feel jealous, but they should express their feelings in a constructive way. This means no name-calling or hurtful words.
5. Teach them how to be happy for others. It’s okay to be jealous, but it’s important to also celebrate when someone else has something that you want. Teach your child how to be happy for others and share in their success.
6. Talk about ways to deal with jealousy. Brainstorm some healthy coping mechanisms with your child, such as talking to a trusted friend or family member, writing in a journal, or going for a walk.
7. Make sure you put them into focus. For example, if there’s sibling rivalry in your family, spend some one-on-one time with each child separately and do something they enjoy, such as having ice cream together and going trampolining at their favorite playground.
8. Keep communication open. Talk to your child often about their feelings and let them know that you’re  always there to listen. It’s very reassuring to know that they have someone who understands and is on their side.
9. Model healthy coping mechanisms yourself. When your child sees you dealing with your own jealousy in a healthy way, it will set a good example for them. If you’re truly happy for others and show them the joy in  sharing, your child will be more likely to do the same.
10. Encourage positive self-talk. Help your child to counter their negative thoughts about themselves by encouraging them to speak kindly to themselves. Develop confidence in themselves and their abilities.
11. Help them find things to be grateful for. When your child is feeling jealous, help them to focus on the things in their life that they are thankful for. For example, they may be grateful for their loving family, their health, or their talents and abilities.
12. Promote positive social interactions. Help your child to interact with others in a positive way, such as by complimenting them or engaging in cooperative play.
13. Seek professional help if needed. If your child is having difficulty coping with jealousy, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide additional support and guidance.