So you’re the oldest. You also have a pesky younger sibling(s). You probably feel like the guinea pig child in the eyes of your parents, too. If these statements don’t apply to you, you need not continue reading. But if you choose to, you could learn something new about your awesome older sibs, grow a fuller appreciation and have more respect for them.
As the big sister/brother, we know there are plenty of pros and cons to the title. You are a built-in babysitter for your parents. Being a responsible and positive role model for the little ones is very important. It can be overwhelming at times, but it can also be very gratifying. Personally, I didn’t realize how much I really cherished being an older sister to my younger sister and brother until I moved five hours away for college. Now every time I see them, I feel like they’ve grown four inches each and accomplished something in their school or sport activities that I have the opportunity to support them in and be proud of. It’s tough not being there every day to watch them grow up, but it makes it even more special each time I am reunited by their side.
At times, it can feel like the only good thing about being the oldest is more freedom. However, you then have to sacrifice that free time to watch your siblings while your parents run errands or go on a date. It can feel annoying and inconvenient to you at the time, but it’s really more of a compliment that your parents trust you enough to watch over their pride and joy. That’s not the only con. Like I mentioned before, you have to be the role model to your siblings. They watch and imitate all that you do, even if you don’t notice it. That means always being on your best behavior and feeling like there’s no room for error in your life. This is a lot of pressure to put on a kid, but it will turn out for the better in the end. Having to be responsible and conscious of your actions at all times is a good life skill to have.
There are some pros, too; we can’t forget those of course. You are an adult figure in their lives, whom they look up to very much. But we can also look up to them. If you pay attention they can teach you things too; you don’t have to be older to be a teacher to someone, and once you realize this, it can be an edifying experience. If you’re the oldest, your parents usually bribe you to take your younger siblings places with you and your friends. As a teenager that can be the most annoying and embarrassing thing ever. What I’ve learned from growing up a little bit, though, is that your siblings can make for some of the best friends. Seriously, since leaving home I have become a lot closer with my little sister and I consider her to be my best friend.
Being the oldest, your parents have experienced all the “firsts” with you. First preschool experience, first puberty encounter, first prom process, and you’re definitely the first child they’re putting through college. It’s a learning experience for everyone involved. There’s a special place in my heart for the oldest siblings everywhere. It can be tough at times, but the rewards always outweigh the cons. Tell your little sister and/or brother how much they mean to you today; you are their hero, after all. Don’t forget you have special tasks involved with being the oldest and to treat them seriously. You younger siblings who chose to keep reading, you tell your older siblings how thankful you are for their presence in your life too.
“A sibling is your only enemy you can’t live without.”
-Unkown
