I know this sounds dumb but my 8yo and 5yo were building something with legos and actually cooperating. No arguing, no screaming, just two kids working together for like 20 minutes. I didn't want to ruin it so I just stood there silently taking a video. Might be the best parenting win I've had all month.
Doesn't sound dumb at all. Those moments are gold. When mine actually cooperate without prompting I stop and just watch for a minute because I know it won't last long.
Those moments are the best. My kids will suddenly start a building project together and I just stand there amazed. Usually lasts about 20 minutes before someone gets territorial about the Legos but I'll take it.
This is huge. Those moments are rare and they're gold. I try to just watch and let them have it without jumping in. The second you try to extend it or make it into a 'thing' it falls apart but just witnessing it is enough.
It doesn't sound dumb at all. I celebrate these moments because I know how quickly they flip back to fighting. My 8yo and 5yo did the same thing building with legos last week and I just sat there smiling like an idiot.
The fact that you're noticing and appreciating it says everything. A lot of parents just expect kids to play nicely but cooperation at that age is actually a skill they're developing. You're seeing real progress.
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This is huge though. Most of parenting is managing conflict between siblings so when they actually get along it's a win. Are they close in age or is the 8-5 age gap helping?