The hilarious lunch order that sums up firstborn vs. secondborn vibes

There are two types of girls in this world. One quietly orders her Wendy’s salad with the precision of a tiny food critic: “Um, a salad. It has, well, of course, lettuce, um and cheese, tomato… onion, and I believe that’s it. And egg. Oh yeah, egg.” The other? Shouts her order with full-throttle confidence: “CHICKEN, CHICKEN AND CHICKEN!”

This viral TikTok from @shan040891, which has over 33 million views, is a funny family moment that highlights how kids develop their individuality and express their personalities, even in everyday moments like ordering lunch.

The comment section exploded with joy and recognition. “Perhaps a salad for the lady? Perhaps not? ‘CHICKEN, CHICKEN , CHICKEN, CHICKEN’ 🤣🤣🤣,” wrote @KareNN. “Definition of 1st daughter vs 2nd daughter 😂,” joked @Elise Fellerman.

@shan040891 What’s your Wendy’s order? #wendys #toddlersoftiktok ♬ original sound – Shannon

Related: Toddler gives viral crumpet order—and mom’s calm response wins the internet

Small choices, big growth

Whether it’s a meal, an outfit, or a bedtime story, when kids make choices, they’re practicing autonomy, a vital skill for healthy development. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, encouraging independence early helps children build confidence, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills that will serve them for life.

This video taps into familiar “firstborn vs. secondborn” vibes, with the careful, detail-loving first child contrasted against the loud-and-proud second. These are playful stereotypes, though; every kid is different, shaped by temperament, environment, and how they’re raised.

Letting kids order their own food—even if it’s a salad with seven ingredients or a chicken chant shouted six times—helps them know their choices and opinions matter.

Related: Researchers find a little childhood independence can reduce kids’ anxiety

Celebrating each child’s unique voice

Kids come with all kinds of personalities. Some are quiet and thoughtful, others loud and full of energy. Trying to fit every child into the same “well-behaved” mold means missing out on the unique ways they show who they really are.

Birth order might influence some traits but doesn’t tell the whole story. Every child is shaped by their own mix of temperament, experiences, and environment.

When parents notice and appreciate these differences, even in small everyday moments, they help their kids feel truly seen and valued for who they are.

How to nurture autonomy at home

• Offer daily choices: Whether it’s what to wear or what snack to eat, simple options give kids a sense of control.
  
• Listen carefully: Show your child you respect their preferences, even if they don’t match your own.
  
• Model confident communication: Speak clearly and kindly about your own feelings and choices.
  

Accept imperfection: Learning independence is messy and involves plenty of mistakes — and that’s okay.

The bottom line

As parents, the greatest gift we can give is space for children to find their own voices, whether loud, soft, detailed, or bold. It’s in these imperfect, hilarious moments that their true personalities shine.

Next time you’re at the drive-thru, remember every order is more than just food; it’s a step toward independence, identity, and self-assurance. And that’s absolutely worth celebrating.