GREENSBORO, N.C. — Today is National Only Child Day. Let’s celebrate the millions of amazing people who grew up without siblings. But what is it really like to be an only child?
Here are a few advantages of being an only child. Only children might get more undivided attention from their parents, which can lead to a closer, more supportive relationship. Without siblings to rely on, only children often learn to be resourceful and solve problems independently at a younger age. With less competition for attention and activities, only children usually get more experiences and opportunities with extracurricular interests and activities.
There are a few perceived disadvantages of being an only child. Children might be a little lonely without siblings because they don’t have anyone to play with at home. Siblings often learn people skills with each other, such as learning, compromising, and solving problems. Only children might have to put in extra effort to learn these skills with friends and classmates. Also, some only children feel pressure to live up to high expectations from their parents. Additionally, as their parents age, only children are usually responsible for caring for their parents.
A common misconception about being an only child is that they’re socially awkward. Some only children spend more time alone, but this doesn’t mean they’re destined to be social outcasts. They often have strong communication skills through interactions with adults. Some might put more effort into building friendships, which can lead to deep and meaningful connections.
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