How to Make a Middle Child Feel Special

The "Middle Child Syndrome" is very real, with the second-born child living in the shadow of his older sibling while competing with the youngest for much-needed attention. As a parent, there are easy ways to minimize the effects of a middle child feeling "left out."

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Recognize that each of your children requires a unique kind of love. It's easy for the parent of multiple children to lump her kids together, assuming that what works for one will work for all. As each child has her own special personality, however, so too must be the attention she receives.
2. Resist the temptation to compare. The middle child, who may already feel out of place or unworthy, will only feel worse if his achievements are compared against those of his older sibling or if he perceives that he is not as special or cute as the baby of the family. Remember to show the middle child your enthusiasm regarding his own accomplishments and personality.
3. Don't show favoritism. While it is often difficult for a parent not to prefer one child to another at some point, kids have a keen sense of awareness when they feel that a parent is playing favorites. Find an opportunity to devote one-on-one time to each of your children, whether playing a game or reading a book.
4. Make sure that your children treat each other with respect. When squabbles arise, do not take sides; instead, adopt a neutral stance and encourage them to resolve conflict on their own. Likewise, never place blame.