By: Niamh Connolly
Updated: Aug. 21, 2023
Originally Published: Sep. 10, 2013
As a parent of twins, I often hear the exclamation, “Wow, twins! How do you manage?” My typical response is twofold: A) I really have no choice in the matter and B) I can’t compare my experience to anything else. Since day one, I’ve been juggling two children, which has become my normal.
This week, however, I got a glimpse into the world of most parents—those with a single child. My daughter, Clara, has been under the weather, so I kept her home from preschool for a few days. While her twin sister, Isla, enjoyed time with friends, Clara and I had some wonderful one-on-one moments.
Until now, I had no real frame of reference for parenting just one child. I could easily believe that raising a single child was challenging. I could envision how difficult it would be to manage kids of varying ages. And I definitely understand that having three kids can be chaotic! My cousin, for instance, has seven children—and I completely trust her when she says she sometimes forgets significant moments of her life.
Every parenting situation has its unique hurdles, but I must admit, after this brief experience, managing one child seems so much simpler.
Before you, parents of singletons, start rolling your eyes, let me clarify: I understand that this perspective is relative. My lovely time with Clara was special because it was a change from my usual routine. I fully recognize that if I had only one child from the start, my experience would be entirely different.
This week, for example, I had the time and patience to allow Clara to bake muffins from scratch. I supervised her efforts, but I didn’t lose my cool when she spilled flour or decided to “taste” the mixture. Baking with twins usually feels like a battlefield where I’m a frantic commander trying to maintain order. But not this time!
Isla also enjoyed some special time. I left Clara at home with her dad one afternoon and took Isla out for lunch and shopping. Having just one child made it so much easier to relax without worrying about spills or chasing someone under clothing racks. I will cherish that day for a long time.
I’ve discovered that parenting just one child, especially when you’re used to twins, is incredibly manageable! You might argue that only children can feel bored or lonely, and while that may be true, siblings can feel the same way. The difference, however, is that with one child, you eliminate the need for constant negotiation over activities.
While I adore having twins and will continue to relish every moment with my girls, I plan to incorporate more one-on-one outings with each. It’s a lovely reminder of how easy parenting can be, and a chance to enjoy the simple joys of raising a child.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ins and outs of home insemination, check out this excellent resource that covers what to expect during your first IUI. And if you’re curious about the tools available, visit this site for informative resources on home insemination kits. For further insights, you can explore this post as well.
In summary, having a single child, even as a parent of twins, can be a delightful and manageable experience. It provides a refreshing perspective that reminds us of the joys of parenting, no matter how many little ones are in the mix.