Naija Parents in the UK: Kids Fighting Nonstop During School Closures? Here’s How to Manage It

It starts small—some shouting, maybe a little arguing—then boom! Your living room turns into Royal Rumble UK Edition. Sound familiar? With school closures, holidays, and more time indoors, many Nigerian families in the UK are dealing with sibling fights, screaming matches, and tension in the home. But don’t worry—we’ve got practical, culturally relevant tips to help you manage the chaos.

🕰️ 1. Create a Rotating Schedule (Like a Home Time-Table)

Structure is your best friend, especially when routines have been disrupted. Kids aren’t used to spending every hour of every day together, so make sure they have solo time and designated areas.

Try this:

• Set up 3 stations: one for crafts, one for schoolwork, and one for reading or quiet time.
• Rotate the kids every 30 minutes to an hour so they each get space.
• Come together for meals and a family activity like a board game or Nollywood movie night.

You’ll reduce bickering and give them a sense of routine—something every Naija parent knows is key.

🗣️ 2. Reward Respectful Behaviour (Not Just Shouting “Stop Fighting!”)

In parenting, what you pay attention to tends to grow. So instead of always correcting bad behaviour, focus on praising the good.

Do this:

• Use labeled praise: Say, “I love how you played nicely with your sister,” instead of a vague “Good job.”
• Add a high-five, thumbs-up, or even a back rub if your child likes physical affection.
• Don’t praise by referencing the negative: Instead of “Thanks for not fighting,” try “Well done keeping your hands to yourself while playing.”

⭐ 3. Use a Star Chart or Simple Reward System

Even Naija kids love rewards, especially when they can see their progress. You don’t need anything fancy—just some paper, pens, and stars or stickers.

Here’s how:

• Let each child earn stars for specific good behaviours (e.g. no hitting during meals).
• Don’t make it all-or-nothing—multiple opportunities throughout the day mean more chances to earn.
• Reward ideas can be simple and free:
  • Choose what’s for dinner 🍲
  • Pick the family movie 🎬
  • Extra screen time 💻

Let the kids help pick the rewards—but you decide how many stars each one costs.

🧠 4. Teach Problem-Solving (Instead of Being the Referee)

“He started it!” is a phrase most parents have heard 100 times in a week. But instead of jumping in every time, help your kids learn to solve problems themselves.

Here’s the Naija-Parent Approach:

1. Ask them to identify the goal (e.g. “We both want to play with the ball”).
2. List possible solutions (even the not-so-good ones—they’ll learn by discussing the consequences).
3. Talk through each solution (what would happen if…).
4. Rank them from most helpful to least.
5. Try the best one—and if it doesn’t work, try the next.

With practice, your kids will start handling more of their squabbles without needing Mummy or Daddy to step in every time.

☕ Bonus Tip for You: Breathe, Mama. Rest, Daddy.

When the kids are figuring it out, take a break. Make tea, call a friend, or read something for yourself. You’re not just managing a household—you’re raising future adults. Naija parents are built for resilience, but even you need time to recharge.

💬 Final Word for Our Naija UK Connect Fam

School closures can test any parent’s patience, but with the right tools, even the wildest “house safari” can be tamed. Keep your head up, be consistent, and don’t forget to celebrate the little wins.

We dey your corner. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

Want more parenting tips, family-friendly activities in the UK, or support from other Nigerian parents?
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