5 benefits to being the first born child
We all know the old stereotypes of the eldest child being responsible and smart, the middle child feeling overlooked or left out, and the youngest doing pretty much whatever they like.
But today we are focused on the elders of the tribe. The first born. The one that forged new ground. Being born first actually has many advantages so if this is you (or you want to investigate it for your own children) read on.
The first born enjoys the full benefit of his parents’ attention until the dethroning occurs. That’s when sibling rivalry begins in earnest as all of a sudden the love and care needs to be shared (and let’s be honest, nobody likes to share if they can help it).
But let’s not dwell on that. First-borns tend to be:
1. High achievers
The new parents pin all their hopes and dreams on the first born. It’s all flash cards and organic puree for this guy. The eldest child can feel that pressure and anxiety to perform, to do the right type of job or have the right type of house to please their parents. This can work in their favour though as it gives them the drive to succeed.
2. Born leaders
It makes sense really. They’ve been bossing around their younger siblings their whole life so of course they can command attention at work. Factually speaking, astronauts and political leaders tend to be first borns. So if you want that corner office, make sure you’re born first in the family.
3. Conservative
It’s natural that the first born is a bit of a people pleaser. They wanted their parents to lavish attention on them and they learned early on not to take too many risks. That’s why first borns are less likely to be smokers.
4. Slimmer
It’s thought that the eldest tends to be taller and leaner than their siblings, and not just due to the organic puree mentioned above. It seems the mother’s uterus changes after her first pregnancy.
5. Smarter
Yes, you heard it here first. A first born tends to have a higher IQ than subsequent children. Could it be because they got more attention at the start of their life when their parents had more time for them? Scientists believe this to be the case, as well as the fact that parents have more time for toddler music classes and craft when there is just one child at home.
Does any of this resonate in your family? We would love to hear from you in the comments.