When I share that I have six children, the reactions I receive can be quite amusing. Admittedly, there are moments when I question my decision, contemplate the legacy I am leaving for them, or think about the environmental impact of a larger family. However, the majority of the time, I find joy in the experience of raising six kids. Here are several reasons why having a big family is truly rewarding:
1. Cost-Effectiveness
A few years back, during the economic downturn, I was asked whether it would influence my choice to expand my family. The simple answer was, “No.” I refuse to let financial concerns or common sense inhibit my desire to have children. In my view, the cost of raising kids is largely determined by how much you choose to spend. While the initial expenses of the first child can be significant, having more children often means greater value for your investment. Our well-used baby gear is a testament to that. Additionally, hand-me-downs in clothing make for an economical solution. While university expenses might loom on the horizon, we have plans in place to support them, and I believe in encouraging my children to contribute towards their education through work and loans. Ultimately, the ability to “afford” children is subjective; I may not own a luxury car, but I can support my six children without issue.
2. Cultivating Kindness
It’s often observed that kids from larger families tend to be more agreeable. While this is a broad generalization, I have some thoughts on why that is. One significant factor is that it’s challenging to spoil children in a big family. While smaller families may have their share of unspoiled kids, providing equal, expensive toys for all becomes impractical. The kids in my household learn to share and are encouraged to be independent from a young age. My six-year-old has been making her own breakfast for ages! This independence fosters not only a sense of responsibility but also a kindness that is often remarked upon by others.
3. Adaptation to Lifestyle
Let’s be honest—having young children means you’re already running on empty when it comes to sleep, social activities, and even time to eat. You may feel like a walking zombie and find it impossible to go anywhere without a well-stocked diaper bag. Adding more children to the mix doesn’t make life drastically more difficult—if anything, you become accustomed to the chaos. After transitioning from one child to two, the hardest part is behind you. Sure, challenges arise, but the joys from the “this is amazing” side of parenting far outweigh the hassles.
4. Built-In Playmates
The phrase “I’m bored” is rarely heard in my home. This is partly because my children know better than to utter those words, knowing they may be assigned chores as a consequence. More importantly, they have siblings to play with, which means they often engage in imaginative play without needing me to intervene. While they may squabble at times, they also enjoy hours of independent fun, freeing me from the burden of constant entertainment.
5. Enhanced Social Skills
My eldest child, who has special needs, benefits immensely from having younger siblings. Their interactions encourage communication and socialization, effectively drawing him into play and shared experiences. Although I didn’t choose to have a large family with this in mind, the presence of siblings has undoubtedly enriched his life. He learns to collaborate and contribute, aligning his responsibilities with those of his siblings.
6. Future Caregivers
One of the more humorous perks of having six kids is the assurance that I won’t end up in a retirement home; instead, I can count on them to take care of me. They’ll be able to share the responsibility of caring for their aging parent, which I find comforting. And let’s be real—I might just feign a little extra neediness to remind them of all those diapers I changed!
Bonus Insight
Ultimately, the joy and fulfillment that comes from raising six children is irreplaceable. Each child adds a unique dynamic to our family, making life an exciting adventure.
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In summary, having six children brings joy, challenges, and a sense of community that enriches all our lives. The shared experiences and bonds formed within a large family can be incredibly rewarding, making the journey worthwhile.