You’ll Only Truly Understand These Struggles If You’re the Youngest Sibling
Being the youngest sibling can have its major perks—for example, not being the family's guinea pig—but it can also have its downfalls. Who likes being referred to as "squirt"? No one, ever.
If you're the designated "baby" of the family, get ready to these 16 struggles at a profound level.
It Feels Like Your Siblings Define Your Identity
In school, your teachers always remember you as so-and-so's younger sibling. It may be true, but there's so much more to you than that.
(Girl Meets World via Disney Channel)
You Rarely Have Brand-New Pieces In Your Wardrobe
When a new school year rolls around, your mom's first suggestion is to try on your older sibling's hand-me-downs before going shopping for new clothes. The few new pieces you do own are cherished treasures.
You Don't Always Get Quality Time With Your Older Siblings
As your siblings get older, you find them denying you access to hang out with them and their "much older" and "much cooler" friends. How rude!
Age = an Automatic Cool Factor
And whenever your friends come over, you're slightly worried that they'll want to hang out with your older, "cooler" siblings and their friends instead of you.
Also read about: Have Trouble Dealing With a Difficult Sibling? We Asked an Expert for Advice
You're Not Under the Same Constant Supervision
Because you aren't the first-born child, your parents aren't as laser focused on what you're doing at all times—which can be both good and bad. It does get you into a little bit of trouble sometimes.
(Liv and Maddie via Disney Channel)
You're More Prone to Getting Bossed Around
You've probably been suckered into doing some sort of chore or homework assignment for your sibling just to avoid confrontation with them.
When the Parents Are Gone, the Big Kids Are in Charge
When your parents go on date night, you've been stuck with your older sibling as your babysitter. Let's just say they go on a bit of a power trip.
(Adventures in Babysitting via Disney Channel)
Your Secrets Are Rarely Safe
If your older sibling finds out you have a crush, you know you better prepare yourself for some teasing.
Also read about: How to Deal If You're Crushing on Your BFF's Sibling
It's Hard Not to Compare Yourself
If your sibling is particularly athletic or great at school, you'll always find yourself comparing your own skills to theirs. Don't!
People Think You're a Tattletale
Everyone assumes that you're a snitch just because you're the youngest. This isn't always true.
(Girl Meets World via Disney Channel)
Where Are Your Baby Pics?
For some reason unbeknownst to you, there are far less baby pictures of you than your older siblings. It's like your family gave up on taking pics after the first child.
You're Forced to Share Everything
If you have multiple siblings, chances are you've had to share a room. The older sibling needs their "privacy."
Also read about: How to Make Up With Your Sibling After a Fight
Pranks Are Inevitable
You've occasionally had to sleep with one eye open because your older sibling loves to play jokes on you in your most vulnerable state.
(K.C. Undercover via Disney Channel)
You Never Get to Pick What to Watch
No matter how hard you try, you rarely get first dibs on the TV remote.
…Or Sit in the Front Seat
You don't get shotgun quite as often as you'd like. Your older sibling somehow always beats you to the punch.
You'll Always Be the Baby of the Family
16. Your parents learned from your older siblings' mistakes, and therefore are a little more cautious with the freedom they give you.
And despite all of this, you still wouldn't change your family for the world. Following in your siblings' footsteps and having a bro or sis who always has your back can be pretty okay.
If you don't take issue with being a younger child, perhaps you're with us when it comes to struggles that only girls with long hair. See what we mean HERE.