Voices

Expectations come with being the oldest

Camilla Veale, Gazebo Staff Writer|May 1, 2019

Camilla, age 9, with brothers Will and Jess

Whether you’re the youngest, middle or oldest child, there’s always something stereotypical about your birth order. The oldest child is usually described as being mature and responsible. The middle child is usually said to be overshadowed at times so they like attention. The youngest child is said to be outgoing, confident, and can usually get away with anything.

I’m the oldest child, and I have two younger brothers. Dealing with two brothers is difficult enough, but when they’re younger they definitely get on my nerves easier. I can relate to most things that are said about the oldest child. The oldest child is always seen to be anxious and the parents always expect the most out of the oldest child. My parents expect a lot out of me and they usually call me the “second parent.

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Sometimes being the oldest isn’t always the best, but I love my family anyway.

— Camilla Veale

Middle children are said to be emotional, which is true in my family. My brother, Will, who is a sixth-grader at Stratford, almost cried once because I said I was better at wakeboarding. Middle children also are often said to be the opposite of the first born in some ways. Unlike me, Will gets along with both of his siblings usually. Will always usually settles the problems between me and Jess.

Jess is the youngest in our family, and he’s definitely an oddball. His outfits are one-of-a-kind, usually because most of his clothes are hand-me-downs. Unlike most stereotypes, he doesn’t get away with everything. Sometimes I get away with stuff that he doesn’t. But Jess does have a lot more freedom than I do. He also doesn’t have as many expectations as I do. When he fails a test, my mom only says a couple of words to him. But if I failed a test, I would definitely get a lecture.

Sometimes being the oldest isn’t always the best, but I love my family anyway… even if I don’t always show it.