Research conducted by yours truly suggests that toddlers with older siblings are significantly more likely to use unique expressions—like “silly goose”—before they hit the age of three. While not every older sibling is as quirky as mine, there are several key indicators that can help you determine if your toddler is a second child or simply ahead of the game.
1. They’re the toddler chasing after school-age kids.
You might spot them darting alongside a group of children at soccer practice, convinced that the game is all about them. Whether they’ve come to endure the agony of being the youngest or to showcase their skills (which may involve throwing the ball rather than kicking it), they are the center of their own universe.
2. They casually mention zombies.
“Watch out, Mr. Jenkins, don’t let the zombie eat your brain!” my toddler cautioned our 90-year-old neighbor the other day. While she didn’t hear this advice, the familiarity with such themes certainly leads to some eyebrow-raising moments.
3. Their Halloween costume is a relic from years past.
Want to take a trip down memory lane? Just check a second child’s costume collection. Expect to find outfits that were once trendy, now slightly worn and possibly adorned with remnants of last year’s candy.
4. They know all about treats.
This toddler is well-versed in the world of candy, juice, and perhaps even the finer points of dessert. They’re likely to have introduced their peers to the joys of sweets—or the consequences of too much sugar.
5. Their social circle is surprisingly diverse.
When asked about their friends, they might rattle off names of school kids rather than peers their own age. This second child is probably a frequent visitor in playdates, often crashing their older sibling’s gatherings just as the door closes behind them.
6. They’re eager to ditch the training wheels.
Despite not having mastered the tricycle, they’re determined to follow in the footsteps of their older friends. If they see older kids riding without training wheels, they want in on the action too.
7. They laugh at jokes they don’t quite grasp.
This toddler is often the loudest in the room, giggling at humor they don’t fully understand—because who wouldn’t want to fit in with the crowd?
8. They might get away with mischief.
Imagine a scenario where they accidentally bop a school kid on the head and somehow walk away with hugs and cuddles. After all, they’re the baby of the family, and nobody wants to upset the little one.
9. They’ve embraced dental hygiene early on.
Having been exposed to mint-flavored toothpaste and other dental products, they might be more adventurous with their oral care than their peers.
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In summary, toddlers who are second children often display unique characteristics that set them apart from their peers. From their social interactions to their adventurous spirits, these little ones embody an intriguing blend of independence and influence from their older siblings.