The "Get Along Shirt"

The "Get Along Shirt"

I had come across "the get along shirt" idea. But being so long ago I don't even know where to begin to give kudos to whomever came up with this ingenious idea.
I'd say this is best for children 3 and up.

If you have never heard of the "get along shirt" , the idea is quite simple.

Take an inexpensive t-shirt size xxl or larger if you can find one and write across the front
"Get along shirt" In large letters. I cut the collar off  so the neck is loose enough for 2 people.

For families with multiple children you know that bickering amongst siblings is completely normal. To be honest quite annoying at times. Why can't they get along? OR Just stay away from each other for awhile.

Its a kind of phenomenon that I would compare to the law of opposite attraction.

Siblings know what buttons to push, and seem to enjoy pushing them even if that means some sort of retaliation . And of course then come the "Mommy he said, she said"  back and forth , the annoying part, right?

 Nothing will ever make everyone like or get along with each other all of the time, that is unrealistic, it just came to a point where I figured there has to be a way to curb this a little.

I will warn you , some may find this idea just as I did, creative, some may think its quite hysterical. And I know some of you might think I'm the worst mother in the world- if this is you, stop reading now.

If on any given day , 2 of my children just can't seem to stop the bickering and refuse to solve their issues on their own without having to run to me for interference ,
I calmly remind them of our families get along shirt. That will usually get their attention but sometimes they are like a snowball and just keep rolling.

They are given the shirt and must wear it each with one arm in each sleeve, standing side by side in front of me, for a few minutes until the offensive behaviour stops. Generally at this point one is laughing , while the other is sobbing telling me how its not fair, they didn't do anything, so and so started it. I probably should warn you , its often tricky to keep a straight face while trying to have a serious conversation with the offenders.
I Just can't help myself and have a need to take a picture. Of course this is optional. But great for a giggle with them when they are calm.

Not only does this tactic put an end to the bickering , they communicate with each other , after all it takes teamwork from both to get out of the get along shirt,  But my sanity is spared, you know what they say "Laughter is the best medicine."

(I will spare my children the embarrassment of posting a picture. Use your imagination.)