If you’re the youngest or middle child in your family, this new research may be a little bit hard to swallow!
A study has shown that first-born children are likely to be smarter and more intelligent than their siblings - news that’s sure to start squabbles all over the country.
The research by economists at the University of Sydney and the University of Edinburgh, Analysis Group has revealed that first-borns have a higher IQ as well as better thinking skills - and the signs can be seen as early as the age of one.
It’s believed the findings could be the result of older children receiving more mental stimulation and undivided attention from their parents. While the study found that all children received the same amount of emotional support and love from their parents, the increased one-on-one time with first borns boosted their thinking skills.
The study used information collected by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and examined nearly 5,000 children - finding that first-borns scored higher on various testing, and often went onto better jobs and wages.
‘Our results suggest that broad shifts in parental behaviour are a plausible explanation for the observed birth order differences in education and labour market outcomes,’ says Dr Ana Nuevo-Chiquero, from Edinburgh University.
Wonder what siblings Kate and Pippa Middleton will think of this?!
Amy SinclairAmy Sinclair is the editor of New Idea Food. She is a former weekly magazine editor who loves all things food, cooking and eating - especially the eating! When she's not looking after her three children, you'll find her in the kitchen or busily hiding online shopping purchases from her husband.
