Characteristics of the Only Child

The Only Child, considered as the parents "only hope".

TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Is unfamiliar with relating to other children and may have difficulty sharing as he has few opportunities to learn how to successfully share.

• Prefers the company of, and gets along better with, adults; may seem mature for his age.

• Is not used to competition and can be demanding, unforgiving, and sensitive.

• Feels special because he is used to being the center of attention.

• May not take criticisms well.

HOW TO DEAL:

Parents should be careful of the 'onlies' because they will place all the 'eggs' in this one basket. Parents expectations should be realistic; they can place the child in play groups early on to teach about sharing and getting along with others.