Let’s get this straight: I fully understand that some parents might say I should cherish every moment and that the infant stage is fleeting. They may reminisce about those baby days with misty eyes, but here’s the deal—I’m also looking forward to a time when my little ones are less likely to spit up on me, and the only behind I have to change is my own. Moms with older kids seem to have it all figured out, and while I know they face their own set of challenges, here’s why I can’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy.
1. School Days
Sure, I love being home with my kids, but do you think I don’t have a countdown to the day I can finally drop them off at school? The idea of returning home to a quiet house, kicking off my shoes, and enjoying a few hours of peace sounds like paradise. I can finally indulge in adult activities, like blasting music and leaving potentially dangerous items out—just because I can.
2. Sleepovers
Imagine a whole night of freedom where you don’t have to rush home before the babysitter charges you for extra time! Sending your child off for a sleepover means they get to enjoy junk food and late-night giggles while you get to relive those wild 20-something nights—at least for a little while. I don’t even mind the obligation to return the favor; it’s a small price to pay for a night of nostalgia.
3. No More Potty Training
Your big kid can handle their own bathroom business without a reminder! They know when to go, which means no more last-minute dashes out of the driveway. Although, I’m still not sure I would want to shake hands with a kid who skips washing up after the fact.
4. Chores
I admit it: I envy the legal “child labor” your big kids can provide. I can’t wait for the day when my children can manage their own tasks in the house. Sure, some may scoff at my dreams of lounging around while they clean, but let me hold onto my fantasies!
5. Dressing Themselves
Even if their outfits clash and they might wear their underwear inside out, your kids can dress themselves! Mine still struggle to put on a hat properly. Yes, I know that comes with its own battles over clothing choices, but I’ll tackle that sh*t when I get there.
6. Actual Summers
While I’m envious of your kids’ time at school, I’m equally jealous of the genuine summer vacations you have! Right now, every day feels the same, but soon enough, I’ll be able to look forward to real breaks filled with fun activities and lazy mornings—maybe even sleeping in without anyone needing pants.
7. Humor That Cracks Me Up
Your big kids say the funniest, most outrageous things that leave everyone in stitches. My toddler’s endless knock-knock jokes are wearing thin, and I can’t wait until I can share in the hilarity of your kids’ witty remarks.
8. Goodbye to Disney Junior
Let’s be honest: the shows for older kids might not be much better, but at least they offer a reprieve from the seemingly endless cycle of Pirate Jake and Princess Sofia. I’ve had enough of those shows that warp little minds into thinking princesses just wake up with royal status and magical steeds.
9. Engaging Conversations
Instead of repeating myself all day long with phrases like, “Don’t do that!” you can actually have a conversation with your kids. Asking about their day or what they learned at school yields more than just “I don’t know.” Plus, outings become much easier without the constant need to monitor every little thing.
10. Less Gear to Carry
Babies may be small, but their gear takes up an enormous amount of space. Cribs, swings, and playpens fill every corner of my home. I dream of the day when my big kids only need clothes and maybe a mattress—maybe I can even get away with no clothes if we decide to homeschool!
Every stage of parenting has its ups and downs, and while I’m navigating the whirlwind of toddlerhood, I can’t help but look forward to the more manageable years ahead. For every parent who reminds me to cherish these fleeting moments, there’s someone who’d give anything to relive those chaotic days with their now-grown children.
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Summary: This article outlines ten reasons to feel envious of parents with older children, from the freedom of school days to the humor of engaging conversations. Each point highlights the joys and conveniences that come with growing kids, contrasting them with the challenges of raising toddlers.