DEAR BOB,

My parents fight all the time. What can I do? I’m nine and my sisters are six and 11. 

– Middle Child

DEAR MIDDLE,      

Many kids like you know how uncomfortable it can be when their parents fight with each other. You cannot control your parents. You can only control your own actions. So try to focus on that.

If they are arguing around you, you may be able to go into another room or outside. You could invite your sisters to go with you. You could sing a song like this to yourself or your little sister to help get your mind off of the negative.

It must bother you when your parents fight. You might talk to them about this. They will listen best if you bring it up at a time when they are calm, not around the time of an argument. Say something like, “I need to talk to you about something.” When they are listening, tell them what’s bothering you. You might say this, “It makes me feel stressed when you yell at each other.” Or replace the thick, bold words with your own.

Parents fight. They will still argue even if they know it bothers you. It’s just part of being parents. But if you bring up your problem with it, they may take care not to argue in front of you.

Remember that you cannot control others. Focus on what you need to do and what you like to do. Keep being the best you that you can be.

Sincerely,

-Bob Cat

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