I have heard some of my friends say that their older brother or sister is their best friend. The problem is when their older sibling has friends over to spend the night their older brother or sister will act like their sibling is not even there. This is very hurtful to my friends that have older siblings.

I use to think that this was so mean and that the older sibling should not be able to get away with doing that to their younger sibling. I still feel that way but now that I am the older sibling I have to admit, as much as I love Gracie I want to enjoy my time alone with my friends when they are over to my home. When my friends are over I do not ignore Gracie but I try to tell her this is sissy’s time to spend with her friends right now and that I will spend time with her tomorrow when they leave. She does not always understand but I encourage her to try to find something fun to do on her own. Sometimes I will even help her find something to do. My mom and my dad understand my time alone with my friends is very important to me. I will even suggest to Gracie to go play with mommy or daddy if she does not want to play alone.

If you are the younger sibling and your older sibling does not want to spend time with you when he or she has their friends over do not take this personally. Give your older sister or brother their time to enjoy their friends. You do not want your older brother or sister to think you are a pest. If you give them their time to spend with their friends he or she will be happier to see you when they leave and they will look forward to spending time with you once their friends are gone.