Most of the time, growing up isn't easy. We all have different lives, but sometimes, we can have similar experiences growing up. In my opinion, middle children of different families can relate to the ways they grew up. Being one myself and seeing my older siblings as well as my younger siblings grow up with me, I am glad I am the middle child of the family.

My house was never boring. With there being seven of us, including my parents, there was always something going on. With there being so many of us, I sometimes didn't get the attention that my oldest sister did or my youngest brother did. I understand that this can be a good and bad thing, but I see it as more of a benefit since I got away with more things. (Sorry mom!) My parents already raised two children before me and they were more focused on my brother who is 12 years younger than me, so if I asked to do something, the answer was usually yes, or if I got trouble for something, I don't think my punishments were as harsh. I loved how my parents were less strict with me about rules since I was the middle child, but it did suck sometimes when they wouldn't give a minimum amount of attention I thought I deserved when I was proud of myself for something. If you are a middle child and feel the same way, make sure you talk to your parents and tell them how you feel. Don't belittle yourself or your feelings because they are valid! Since I got away with more things or had to depend on myself more since my parents were busy with other siblings or chores, this made me into a more independent person.

Another benefit of being a middle child is having those siblings! I watched my older brother and sister grow up first, so I learned a lot from them. I learned what was cool and not cool with my parents as well as simple things. Some people say that older siblings help raise the younger ones and I believe this to be true. I remember my older sister giving me boy advice for my first crush and my older brother teaching me how to ride a bike. And when my two younger brothers were born, I did the same thing. I helped my parents out with them whenever they needed and whenever I could. I helped my brother learn how to tie his shoes and helped my youngest brother learn how to swing a bat so we could all play wiffle ball. These are just little examples but it proves that having siblings is a major benefit while growing up because they keep you entertained as well as help you learn things. Being a middle child has its perks, but like I said, we all have different experiences growing up!