Research I’ve conducted indicates that toddlers with older siblings are significantly more prone to using playful phrases—like “buttface”—before they even hit three years of age. While not every household has an older sibling who embraces this unique lexicon, there are several unmistakable signs that can help you determine if your toddler is truly a second child or just exceptionally advanced.
When you have a second child, you might notice they are the one sprinting alongside a group of older kids at soccer practice. Or perhaps they’re the little one pressed against the glass, eagerly watching the skaters glide on the ice. In either case, they seem to believe the entire scene revolves around them, whether they feel like victims of a cosmic joke or think they’re gearing up for their own soccer match (where, apparently, the ball is tossed high in the air with both hands to avoid a head-on collision).
Then there’s the toddler who talks about zombies. Just the other day, my little one advised our elderly neighbor, “Goodbye, Doris! Make sure the zombie doesn’t catch you!” Although Doris didn’t hear this warning, it certainly made for an awkward moment. The exposure to such themes at a young age can lead to some amusing and cringe-worthy interactions.
Their Halloween costumes also tell a story. If you want a snapshot of pop culture from the last decade, a second child’s costume collection is worth raiding. You’re likely to find outfits that were once in vogue, complete with a few scuff marks and chocolate stains from past Halloweens.
Speaking of treats, this toddler knows all about chocolate, lollipops, and juice—likely corrupting their peers in the process. However, they may also be the ones with the more advanced dental care habits, having been introduced to mint-flavored toothpaste and other dental products a bit earlier than their older sibling.
When discussing friends, second children often provide a long list of schoolmates rather than peers their own age. It’s likely your little one has formed non-reciprocal relationships with a bunch of preschoolers or older kids, crashing playdates with ease. Just as the door closes behind their older sibling, you can bet your toddler will sneak in to join the fun.
They might not have mastered the tricycle yet, but they’re adamant about taking off those training wheels. If all their older friends can do it, why shouldn’t they?
They also tend to laugh heartily at jokes they don’t fully comprehend, blending in with the crowd just to share in the giggles. You might even witness them landing a playful hit on a school kid, only to be met with hugs and cuddles instead of scolding. After all, they’re the baby of the family, and heaven forbid anyone upsets the baby!
For more parenting insights, check out our home insemination kit blog post. And for some authoritative information on the topic, visit Make A Mom and see the expert resources available at Cleveland Clinic’s Podcast on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Identifying a second child can be fun and enlightening. From their adventurous spirit at playdates to their unique exposure to pop culture and treats, second children often exhibit traits that set them apart. Whether it’s their eagerness to join in on older kids’ activities or their peculiar vocabulary, these signs can provide a glimpse into their lively upbringing.