Coming from a family of four siblings, there are many interesting aspects I've learned while being the oldest child. It can be a rewarding considering the amount of influence we, as the eldest, have on our younger siblings. However, it can also be stressful because parents usually have high expectations for their first born. Here are the Top 12 things you'll learn being the oldest child.
1. You'll to have the most responsibility. It's just a given fact since you're the oldest (even when you're trying hard to escape it because it scares you). Let's just admit that we all have that beautiful, carefree child inside ourselves that doesn't want to grow up.
2. Whenever you and your siblings have an argument, there will be a 99.9% chance you'll be the one to blame for it. It will always be your fault because like parents always say, "they're too young to understand" (in which case you get totally pissed off).
3. You'll be the guinea pig. Raising you will be like trial and error for your parents because you're their first child. Therefore, they'll see if their parenting style will turn you into the perfect human they'll dream you to be (and freak out if they mess up!).
4. Instead of spending time with your friends on a Saturday night, you'll be stuck babysitting your siblings. It won't matter if you previously had plans because you'll have to cancel them. Cue the grumpy, exhausted face below. :)
5. When you and your younger sibling finally go to the same school, they'll get super excited every time they see you. You'll become their personal celebrity, so they can point you out to all their little first grader friends. Yipee!
6. Since you'll probably be the first to get a driver's license, you'll have to run errands such as pick up food from the grocery store or drop off mail at the post office. Only then will you realize that your mom needs you to do her dirty work.
7. You'll have to live up to the title of being an exceptional role model because you're siblings will look up to you. Your parents will be watching you like a hawk, just so you don't mess up. So much for staying out past your curfew...
8. When your siblings are struggling with their math or reading homework, you'll automatically become their free tutor. Even when you don't remember anything you learned years ago (since that's impossible!), you'll have to do your best to help them.
9. You'll realize your siblings will have far more privileges than you ever did when you were their age (a part of you will be low-key salty inside). And when your parents try to debunk that claim, you'll secretly know it's true.
10. Whenever your parents buy you anything, (new clothes, new cell phone, etc.) it'll only be a matter of time before your siblings will also want it. Whatever cool item you'll have will make them endlessly complain until they also have it.
11. Aside from having the most responsibility, you'll be the first one allowed to drink, go to college, and see R-rated movies. You'll be able to experience these exciting life endeavors before any of your other siblings do. That's a plus!
12. Even though being the oldest child will sometimes feel difficult, you'll realize what a true blessing it is being the "cool" role model for your precious brothers and sisters that love you deeply. Only then will you realize that being the oldest is a fulfilling, honorable role.
