It is common for children who share a room to be close

The traditional way of doing things is for children to share rooms and this has proven to have the following benefits;

The bond between the children is often strengthened (especially because of the night time company)

The children learn to share

Younger siblings learn responsibility by watching the older ones

The children learn different skills from each other, for instance if one is creative, this trait can rub off to a certain extent onto the other sibling(s).

Space and furniture is maximised in the house, and in the long run, money is saved.

Children learn important lifeskills such as compromise.

Shortfalls:
Because children — even twins — can be very different, there are bound to be some drawbacks of siblings sharing a room such as;

Fights over space and property

In time, privacy becomes an issue, especially when the children are teenagers

There could be clashes as a result of different personalities, for instance if one loves peace and quiet while the other is comfortable with loud music.

Arguments because of failure to agree when decorating the room.

How parents can avert rivalry from sharing a bedroom:

Set a few rules such as;

Do not touch or use what does not belong to you without permission.

Knock before entering the room

Respect each other’s personal space and belongings

Choose what shade the room should be painted — do not leave it to the children to decide.

Allow the children to decorate their side of the rooms.

Let each child have his or her own bed and wardrobe.

Allot each child their own belongings like bedside lamps, if possible).
Compiled by Claire Nabwire