Sibling Age Difference

My brother & I are four years apart & we've always been very close. My eldest is 4 1/2 years older than my middle & they are best friends. They're always together, infact (we homeschool); they play together, watch TV together. I'd say they spend more time hanging out together than they do apart, definitely. They argue a bit, but nothing more than what you'd expect of any siblings. They're very close; if you ask Madison who her best friend is, she names her sister.

Your little one will be a big help to you! He's old enough to be a helper and young enough to feel really important & special while doing it. He'll probably have some jealousy or issues adjusting to the change, so be prepared for some acting out of some kind. Nothing major, but he'll need to feel like he's still super important & loved; some alone time with Daddy at Chuck E Cheese or something like that once the baby comes.

You'll have a great time watching your boy turn into a big brother! Congratulations!

My brother and I are a little over 4 years difference in our age. I am the baby. He was ready to have a sibling by the time I came along. We have always loved each other and protected each other. To this day, we are very close.

I think it is perfect. It allows you eldest to have his 'baby years' and not have to share that time or compete at a time when they really need your undivided attention. Your oldest will be going to school when your youngest needs this same amount of attention.

GL and congratulations!

I loved the 4 year difference between my 2nd and 3rd child. My first 2 were just over 2 years apart, and then my 2nd and 3rd were 4 years apart - my oldest was 6, my son was 4 when she was born. It was great!! She was the family baby! I had a much smoother time with my 3rd baby then I did when I had a 2 year old and a baby.

My kids all get along great. Initially I would say my youngest was closest to her 4 year old brother over her 6 year old sister b/c she was in school already and he was home more with her.

Now they are 13, 10 and 6... 7th grade, 5th grade and 1st grade... life is never dull!

I think you will really enjoy the age spread.

Hi H.,

My son and daughter are 4 yrs/10 months apart and things worked out just fine. He was old enough to be a great big brother and I had some one on one time with her after he started school. Although we were very busy with different activities at different times in their lives, it worked! They are both grown now (27 and 22) and are great friends. It was also nice not to have both in college at the same time or to be worrying about two new drivers out on the road at the same time. If they had been a year or two apart both (driving and college) would have been challenges.