Why a 15-year age gap didn’t stop these siblings from becoming best friends

A recent TikTok from @sportysquadco has taken off, amassing over 3,268 comments as parents everywhere weigh in on the joys and challenges of large sibling age gaps. The video shows a toddler eagerly awaiting his teenage sister’s return and is captioned:

“15-year gap between the oldest and the youngest. He gets so excited when he sees her car pull up in the driveway. Can’t wait for when his sister gets home.” With thousands of parents chiming in, many have shared their own experiences raising siblings with big age gaps.  But what does research say about these unique sibling dynamics?

@sportysquadco 15 year gap between the oldest and the youngest. He gets so excited when he sees her car pull up in the driveway. Can’t wait for when his sister gets home. #momsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #siblings ♬ original sound – Sportysquadco

The benefits of a large sibling age gap

Parents may worry that siblings with a significant age gap won’t form a close bond, but studies suggest otherwise.  A study published in the Journal of Early Adolescence found that older siblings often serve as socialization agents, shaping the development of empathy in younger siblings. The research indicates that older siblings’ behaviors and interactions can shape the emotional growth of their younger counterparts.

Additionally, Psychology Today discusses how older siblings typically provide mentorship and various forms of support to younger siblings, which can include guidance on academics, relationships, and health decisions. This mentorship contributes to the younger siblings’ social and cognitive development.

Related: Kate Hudson’s kids prove that siblings with a big age gap can still have a close bond

Potential challenges and how to navigate them

While a large age gap has its advantages, it can come with challenges. To foster a strong connection despite these challenges, experts recommend:

• Encourage shared experiences: Find common ground through activities both kids enjoy, like movie nights or simple games.
• Respecting independence: Recognize that the older sibling is in a different life stage and shouldn’t be expected to act as a third parent.
• Celebrating the sibling bond: Highlight their unique connection and create moments that reinforce their relationship.

Parents of siblings with large age gaps weigh in

TikTok comments are filled with parents and siblings sharing their own experiences:

• “Awwww this made me smile so big! I’m 35 and my brother is 20 and he’s one of my best friends!!” —@rebelliousting 
• “I have a 16-year gap with my youngest sis. Our parents passed away when she was 10. I took her in and supported her studies. She’s now in college.” —@Ayayayaya Babe 
• “I was 12 when my younger brother was born while my eldest brother was 21 😂😂😂 he’s basically like his first child.” —@sharmarke902 
• “My brother is nine years younger than me. When I was in school, he would wait for me to get home, then run down the driveway and toward my bus stop. Best time of day.” —@samantha bergeson

The emotional depth of these relationships is undeniable—and research backs it up. Dr. Susan McHale, a leading family dynamics researcher, states that older siblings in these relationships often take pride in their younger sibling’s growth and achievements, which can create lifelong bonds.

Related: Alanis Morissette explains why there’s such a big age gap between her kids

The takeaway

While every family dynamic is different, one thing is certain: sibling relationships—no matter the age gap—can be incredibly special. Whether they’re built on mentorship, admiration, or simply the joy of seeing each other at the end of the day, these connections leave a lasting impact.