Updated: Aug. 29, 2017 | Originally Published: Sep. 26, 2016
As a child, I cherished playing with baby dolls—rocking them, swaddling them, and dressing them in countless outfits. I even had one of those quirky dolls you could feed water, which would then… well, you know. I thought that having a baby would be the highlight of motherhood, filled with adorable outfits, tiny shoes, and those heart-melting baby smiles. That was the aspect of motherhood I eagerly anticipated.
Now that my kids are older, I’m realizing there’s a whole new enchanting reality. It’s a world where I can feed a child and not think about what happens afterward. It’s a reality where my children are fun, witty, and genuinely engaging individuals with their own thoughts and ideas. It’s also a space where, when people ask if I’m planning to have another baby, my ovaries practically file for separation from my uterus on their own.
Here are some beautiful things to embrace during this sweet phase of parenting when you’re not yearning for another baby:
- You Only Clean Surfaces.
Forget wiping other people’s faces, hands, or any other body parts. Your focus is solely on your own mess. - Fewer Worries About Safety Hazards.
You don’t have to constantly fret over electrical outlets, stairs, or whether your toddler will try to turn on the stove. Older kids generally remember to look both ways before crossing the street, making life a lot less anxious—at least until they start driving! - You Only Dress Yourself.
Just say, “Put your shoes on,” and in about five hours, it might actually happen. - They Play Independently.
Not just for a quick bathroom break! You can relax while they entertain themselves without worrying about them using Sharpies for unintended purposes or trying to eat dirt. - No More Car Seats.
This may seem trivial, but think about all those times you’ve buckled kids into car seats—over 18,000 times! No wonder I’m exhausted. - They Can Help Around the House.
Kids can pitch in, whether it’s carrying groceries, cleaning, or folding laundry. I told my daughter the other day that I started doing dishes at 10, and now that she’s 10, I might just have a retirement party for my dish duties. - Movies Without “Princess” in the Title.
You can enjoy films that don’t revolve around fairy tales and play games that don’t involve learning the ABCs. Family outings become enjoyable as everyone can sit and eat at restaurants. - Increased Independence.
Now that my son is in fourth grade, he gets to walk to the bus alone and thinks it’s the coolest thing ever. He’s ready for more responsibilities, and so am I! - Less Intense Emotions.
Sure, we still have our moments, but my older kids don’t throw tantrums in stores or need to be carried out screaming for candy anymore. - Meaningful Conversations.
It’s a joy to peek into their minds as they express their feelings in full sentences. They can share when they’re struggling or excited, even if their jokes still leave something to be desired.
While I certainly enjoyed aspects of babyhood and toddler years, I find myself loving this phase with older kids the most. Now, if we could just tackle those eye rolls and aversions to showering, we would be golden!
For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out this post. And for expert advice on artificial insemination, visit Make A Mom. For additional resources, look into Science Daily’s coverage on fertility and home insemination.