My son has been asking for a little brother or sister on a regular basis now (he is an only child). Is it alot more difficult for a child to adjust to a new baby as they get older? Attention is always being focused on that one child, but when a new child is in the picture, the attention has to be shared. Are they more understanding because their older, or does the "adjustment" seem harder because they've been an only child for many years?

I was an only child until my 9th birthday... Then came my little brother. I will say that I didn't have to many adjustment problems. My parents still gave me attention, that was never a problem. But as I got older (early teens) I hated having such a little brother. He annoyed my friends and I, he didn't stay out of my room, and he always wanted to go everywhere with me. And I sure didn't want to take him. We'll be turning 21 & 12 this January and there are no problems. He's my little baby and we couldn't be any closer.

Thanks for your insite ArmyMom...i really appreciate it

quote:

Originally posted by ArmyMom2B:
[qb]I was an only child until my 9th birthday... Then came my little brother. I will say that I didn't have to many adjustment problems. My parents still gave me attention, that was never a problem. But as I got older (early teens) I hated having such a little brother. He annoyed my friends and I, he didn't stay out of my room, and he always wanted to go everywhere with me. And I sure didn't want to take him. We'll be turning 21 & 12 this January and there are no problems. He's my little baby and we couldn't be any closer.[/qb]

I'm the only child by my Mother, and I hated it; so I see where he's coming from. I always said that I would not let me oldest son, Nasir be the only child...and now I have 3 and 1 on the way. Growing up I was very lonely and I think being the only child is the reason for me having tendicies to stay to myself more and be more of a private person. I think waiting so late to have another baby will take some getting used to for your son, but I think he'll like the idea of being a "Big Brother".

being an only child-due to the fact that my half brother lived with his mom-i grow up so bored. i hated being left out of all the sibling things even the fighting. i have a similar sitatuation. my son will be seven soon and he wants a baby around the house. i really don't think he would have a hard time adjusting because he has wanted this all his life. so your son would probably accept it with open arms.

being an only child i found growing up that being by myself was really great and i also was really shy. it was really hard for me to open up. i find that is happening to my son a little bit. he is more soclized that i was only because he lives a different happier lifestyle than i did.

believe it or not you will find your son will be forced to grown up mental faster than his peers who have siblings. i know i did and i see my son doing the same thing. in many ways it's sad. i'm hoping to have another baby someday so he does have a brother or sister.

but good luck to you in your decsion.

smvt