![\"7](\"https:\/\/static.toiimg.com\/thumb\/msid-130547496,imgsize-967215,width-400,height-225,resizemode-4\/7-phrases-parents-should-never-say-to-their-eldest-child.jpg\")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\u201cMy eldest one is the most responsible one\u2026\u201d we\u2019ve often seen parents praising their first born for just being the eldest. Many such children grow up like a role model to their younger siblings. That said, sometimes parents expect a little too much from the eldest one. While this sounds flattering to the younger ones, does the eldest feel the same way?What sounds like an empowering statement to parents can sometimes place an invisible emotional burden on the eldest child. Subtle words and everyday phrases that parents say without the intention to harm can leave a deeper impact. <\/p>\n The first-borns may be the eldest among their siblings, but at the end of the day, they are also a child; A child who\u2019s also experiencing everything for the first time. Here are 7 things parents should avoid saying to their eldest child, and what they should say to convey their message. <\/p>\n This is a line heard in countless homes. While parents never use this with a purpose of harm, to the child this sounds more like a criticism.If the eldest one makes a mistake, offer your support instead of judgement. <\/p>\n Repeated use of such sentences can leave the child feeling that his needs are neglected. These words can make the child develop a sense of resentment over time, and even lead to them suppressing their feelings. <\/p>\n While it sounds like praise, it can box the child into a role where they feel they must always be perfect, dependable, and composed.Parents should appreciate their eldest child\u2019 actions without turning it into an identity they must live up to.<\/p>\n These words can build a leadership burden for the child. The child will constantly feel like they should be the role model for their younger siblings, which eventually can make them feel like they\u2019re being constantly watched and evaluated. <\/p>\n When a new baby is welcomed into the family, many parents unintentionally make the eldest sibling feel like they have \u201cgrown overnight.\u201d But the presence of a baby doesn\u2019t instantly make someone a grown-up. Phrases like: \u201cYou\u2019re not a kid anymore\u201d can make the child feel like their childhood is over.<\/p>\n Encouraging responsibility is important but tying it to their age can make a child feel that their value lies in how much they contribute. Over time, a child can start to feel they are appreciated only when they are useful or helpful. Parents should frame help as a shared value rather than an obligation. <\/p>\n Parents should understand that vulnerability isn\u2019t something to be ashamed of. This phrase can feel dismissive and shaming, especially when the child is simply expressing emotions like frustration, jealousy, or a need for attention. Over time, the child may start suppressing their feelings to avoid being judged, which can affect their emotional confidence and communication.<\/div>\n![\"7](\"https:\/\/static.toiimg.com\/photo\/msid-130547527\/7-phrases-parents-should-never-say-to-their-eldest-child.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\u201cYou\u2019re older, you should know better.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cYour brother is younger, let him have it.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cYou\u2019re supposed to be the responsible one.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cSet an example for you little sister.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cYou\u2019re not a little kid anymore.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cYou\u2019re older, you should help more.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\u201cStop acting like you\u2019re the little one.\u201d
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n