Dear Middle Kid,
Hey there, my darling. It’s your mom here.
First off, I want you to know just how incredible you are. You’re smart, entertaining, witty, passionate, and so many other wonderful things that I recognize daily but may not express often enough.
I see you. But I wonder if you realize that I truly see you. You, who occupies that unique position between your siblings. You, who doesn’t get the thrill of being the first to experience many things, nor the nostalgia of being the last. You, who might sometimes feel overshadowed by the perks and challenges that come with being the oldest and the youngest.
You, my middle child. There are a few things I want you to understand.
Yes, it’s a reality that you sometimes feel overlooked in the grand scheme of our family dynamics. Despite my best intentions, I’ve seen it happen repeatedly. With our first child, we’re in uncharted territory. Every new stage they reach, every milestone they hit is a fresh experience for us. This often results in a significant amount of our attention being diverted their way.
Then there’s the youngest child. They’re the baby of the family, and with that comes a sense of finality. Each milestone they achieve symbolizes the closing chapter of a phase. We become acutely aware of how fleeting these moments are, making it natural for them to receive a bit more indulgence.
However, while it may seem like your siblings receive the bulk of our focus, that’s not entirely accurate. You, my middle child, are the narrative that bridges the extremes. You are the delightful filling in our family cookie, not merely an outer layer.
Now, I don’t want you to think that being a middle child defines you entirely. You are wonderfully unique in your own right. But that in-between position will shape your character in ways you might not fully appreciate until later in life. Trust me, I was also a middle child, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
There are distinct advantages to being in your position within the family structure. You hold the unique duality of being both an older sibling and a younger sibling. This dual role will teach you valuable lessons and shape your growth in ways your siblings may never encounter.
You’re also closer in age to your siblings than they are to each other, which gives you the greatest chance to create strong bonds and shared memories from childhood. Unlike the oldest, you’re free from the weighty expectations that often accompany their role, and you’re not under the constant pressure that the youngest often faces.
Being tucked in the middle means you get to fully immerse yourself in these family years. The oldest and youngest may miss out on certain moments as they come and go, but you’ll be right in the heart of it for the longest duration.
Sure, there are times when being the middle child can feel frustrating. You might wish for a more clearly defined role. But that’s also the beauty of being a middle child—you have the freedom to carve out your own identity.
Research indicates that you are likely to be more open-minded than your siblings and possess exceptional negotiation skills—qualities that will serve you well in life. Yet studies also suggest that you may feel a greater distance from your parents compared to your siblings, which is something I’m determined to change. You are just as much my child, my heart, and the light in my life as your older and younger siblings. I never want you to doubt your place in this family or in my life.
So, my extraordinary, beloved middle child, please forgive our imperfections as parents. Embrace this role and make the most of it. Remember, you are loved unconditionally and completely, now and always.
With all my love,
Mom
If you’re interested in learning more about pregnancy and family dynamics, this post on artificial insemination kits offers valuable insights. For additional resources on pregnancy, check out March of Dimes for a comprehensive guide. Lastly, if you want to delve deeper into family roles, this article on Modern Family Blog is a must-read.
Summary
In a heartfelt message to her middle child, a mother expresses her admiration and affection, acknowledging the unique challenges and advantages of being the middle sibling. She emphasizes the importance of their unique position within the family, reassuring her child of their special place in her heart and encouraging them to embrace their individuality.