Viral video captures firstborn crashing baby’s giggle session with a laugh no one will forget
Credit: Tiktok/@jennarenaejames
Psychologists suggest that sibling rivalry and attention-seeking behaviors are common as children navigate their roles within the family.
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If you’ve ever had a toddler hijack a moment of sibling joy with a grand, unsolicited performance, you’re not alone. A viral TikTok from mom @jennarenaejames captures this perfectly: Her baby is giggling away, and then, enter the firstborn, delivering a laugh so exaggerated it could win an Oscar for Best Supporting Sibling.
Dramatic flair has never looked so cute.
The sibling spotlight stealer
In the video, the baby’s infectious giggles are interrupted by the older sibling’s over-the-top antics. It’s a classic move: When the youngest gets attention, the oldest often steps in with their own showstopper act. This isn’t just about stealing the spotlight—it’s about wanting to be part of the fun and feeling included.
Because who doesn’t love a good laugh, especially when it’s your own?
Related: I’m afraid of having a second child and giving my firstborn less of me
The psychology behind the performance
Psychologists suggest that sibling rivalry and attention-seeking behaviors are common as children navigate their roles within the family. Laurie Kramer, a professor at Northeastern University, notes that siblings between ages 4 and 8 can have up to eight fights an hour. (Nope, it’s not just happening in your house.)
This isn’t necessarily a sign of deep-seated conflict but rather a natural part of children vying for attention and asserting their presence in the family dynamic.
It’s like a mini talent show, but with more tears and fewer jazz hands.
A call for inclusion
When the firstborn interrupts (say, with a dramatic laugh or a flopsy cartwheel), it’s not always jealousy—it’s a bid for inclusion. Children often seek validation and connection, and sometimes, that means turning the spotlight onto themselves.
Because sometimes getting your own acts requires viewing your younger sibling as the opening act.
Related: My firstborn, I know it’s been a hard adjustment
The takeaway for parents
Managing these moments with humor and empathy can help children feel heard and valued. Recognizing that these bids for attention are often about seeking connection can guide parents in fostering positive sibling relationships while also enjoying the sweet antics children naturally perform.
And sometimes letting the firstborn have their moment, too.
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