Firstborn kids tend to be smarter than their younger siblings — science proves it.
A study published in the Journal of Human Resources found that the oldest kids in families performed way better on cognitive tests than their little brothers and sisters pretty much from the beginning — this was true for children as young as one. That intelligence gap got bigger and bigger until they reached school age, at which point it stabilised. So, what it is about being the oldest that makes these people so clever? Here are a few possibilities.
1. The eldest sibling usually takes on more responsibility.
From helping with chores to looking after younger siblings, the oldest often has a lot more on their plate. This means they get better at problem-solving and thinking ahead pretty early on. Over time, this helps them develop sharper mental skills.
2. The eldest sibling leads by example for everyone else.
The firstborn often has to set the tone for how things are done. Whether they like it or not, their siblings tend to follow their lead, so they’re always pushing themselves to be their best. This pressure helps them stay sharp and focused.
3. Parents often spend more time with the eldest child.
When it’s just the first child, they usually get all the attention from their parents. That extra time means more learning, more conversations, and more brain-building moments. Those early years give them a great head start in life.
4. The eldest sibling is the family’s go-to teacher.
Explaining things to younger siblings means the eldest has to think about how to make things simple and clear. Doing this strengthens what they already know. Plus, it’s a great way to keep their brain active.
5. The eldest sibling usually has higher expectations placed on them.
Parents often expect a lot from their first child. The pressure to meet these expectations can push the eldest to aim high in school and other areas, which naturally makes them smarter over time. It’s a challenge, but one that tends to pay off.
6. The eldest sibling figures things out without guidance.
Without an older sibling to show them the ropes, the eldest often has to figure out new situations on their own. This makes them better at thinking on their feet and handling things independently, both of which are key to building intelligence.
7. The eldest sibling gets undivided attention in the early years.
Before any younger siblings arrive, the eldest has their parents all to themselves. That extra attention means more opportunities to learn, which can give them a bit of a brain boost early on. This early focus helps them pick things up faster.
8. The eldest sibling naturally steps into leadership roles.
Being the firstborn usually means being in charge, even if it’s just over little things. Leading the way builds their decision-making skills and makes them more comfortable thinking things through. It’s a skill that sticks with them as they grow up.
9. The eldest sibling often acts as a protector.
Source: Unsplash Looking out for younger siblings makes the eldest more emotionally aware. They learn how to manage other people’s emotions, as well as their own. This emotional intelligence is a key part of being smart in everyday life.
10. The eldest sibling usually grows up with more structure.
Parents tend to be a bit stricter with their firstborn, so the eldest often grows up with more rules and routines. This structure helps them develop self-discipline and stay organised, which are important for keeping their mind sharp.
11. The eldest sibling often starts reading and learning earlier.
Source: Unsplash With no younger siblings to compete with for attention, the eldest often gets more time to focus on things like reading and learning new skills. This early start can give them an advantage when it comes to developing their intelligence.
12. The eldest sibling is good at adapting to changes.
As more siblings arrive, the eldest has to adapt to new family dynamics. This constant change helps them think on their feet and solve problems quickly, which is a big part of being smart. Flexibility like this keeps their brain sharp.
13. The eldest sibling gets more focused developmental support.
Parents tend to be more focused on milestones and education with their firstborn, paying close attention to their development. This extra support gives the eldest child a bit of a cognitive edge in those early years. It often pays off later on as well.
