When I tell people I have six kids, their reactions are often priceless. While there are moments when I question my choices, fret about the future they’ll face, or think about the environmental impact of such a large family, most of the time, I just revel in the joy of being a mom to six wonderful children. Here are a few reasons why having a big family is such a delight:
1. Cost-Effective Chaos
A few years back, during the economic downturn, I was asked if the recession would influence my decision to expand my family. The answer was a resounding “No!” I believe that the cost of raising children is largely determined by how much you choose to spend. Yes, there’s an initial investment with the first child, but once you have several, you really get more value for your money. Just look at our well-loved crib and the hand-me-down clothes that have passed down through the years. While I acknowledge that college may be pricier, I’ve got plans in place for that. Plus, I expect my kids to contribute to their education through work and loans—after all, that’s part of learning responsibility. For me, affording kids is all about priorities. I might not drive a fancy car, but I can certainly manage six children!
2. Building Character
People often say that kids from larger families tend to be kinder. While this is a generalization, I have my theories. Spoiling children is tricky in a big family—there are simply too many kids to shower with lavish gifts. Most of their toys are shared, and they learn to be independent from an early age. My 6-year-old has been making her own breakfast for as long as I can remember! This independence fosters a sense of responsibility and sharing that is often recognized as “niceness” by others.
3. Sleep? What Sleep?
Let’s be honest: once you have small children, sleep becomes a rare luxury. With multiple kids, you’re already in the thick of it, so adding a few more won’t drastically change your routine. If you’ve survived going from one to two kids, you’ve tackled the toughest transition. Sure, it can get hectic, but for every challenge, there are countless rewarding moments that far outweigh the chaos.
4. Endless Entertainment
“I’m bored” is a phrase that rarely escapes my kids’ lips, likely because they know the response I’d give. With so many siblings, they have a built-in entertainment system. They can play together for hours, leaving me to enjoy some peace. While I love joining in on activities, I find that I’m often relieved when they entertain themselves rather than expect me to play along with dolls or action figures.
5. Fostering Social Skills
My eldest child, Sam, has autism, and having three younger sisters has been a tremendous boon for him. They engage him in conversation and imaginative play, helping him develop vital social skills. I didn’t have a large family specifically for this reason, but I can confidently say that being surrounded by siblings has been one of the best things for his growth. He learns to pull his weight among his siblings, just like everyone else.
6. Future Caregivers
Let’s face it—when the time comes for me to need assistance, I won’t be going to a retirement home. My six kids can take turns caring for me, and I might even playfully exaggerate my frailty to remind them of all those diaper changes. They’re fortunate to have each other, and I know they’ll always be there for me.
Bonus Reason
Honestly, just look at these six delightful faces. They truly say it all!
In conclusion, parenting six kids might seem daunting to some, but the joys and benefits outweigh any challenges. From shared experiences to built-in playmates, the love and laughter in our home is immeasurable. For anyone interested in family planning or fertility options, check out this excellent resource on treating infertility, or consider exploring fertility boosters for men to enhance your journey.