36 Signs You Belong to a Large Family

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Big family living is a unique adventure. When you have a bunch of kids under one roof, everything is intensified: the love, the mess, the joy, and even the chaos. So, what exactly qualifies as a “big” family? It often depends on who you ask, but generally, it’s just a few more kids than they have. If you recognize yourself in the following signs, congratulations—you’re part of a big family!

1. You meticulously check the details of “kids eat free” promotions.
2. You’re well aware that adding all your kids to a family membership at the local museum will cost you extra.
3. No matter who you meet, you have kids that are the same age.
4. You encounter another family and think, “Wow, they’re big!” only to realize they have one less child than you.
5. Board game nights require team play due to sheer numbers.
6. There’s a birthday celebration happening at your house almost every week.
7. Despite telling people your kids’ names multiple times, they still mix them up—even your friends often forget how many you have.
8. Someone is perpetually in front of you, moving at a snail’s pace.
9. Your mudroom resembles a chaotic outerwear section of a store.
10. Your kids have no idea what it feels like to wear brand-new clothes.
11. Not only have you mastered tripling recipes, but you do it on a regular basis.
12. Other kids flock to your home, drawn in by the toys and playmates of all ages.
13. You can organize a baseball or soccer game anytime—no neighborly invitations necessary.
14. You find yourself doing at least two loads of dishes and laundry each day.
15. A meal at a fast-food joint costs you around $50, and it’s a highlight for your kids.
16. When you finally go to a nice restaurant, they often seat you in a special room for larger parties.
17. Each time you leave the house, you’re greeted with “You’ve got your hands full!” at least a dozen times, even if only half of your kids join.
18. Buying seven gallons of milk in one trip to the grocery store seems completely normal.
19. You don’t bat an eye when the bagger needs two carts to get everything to your car.
20. There’s no room left for a friend when you take your kids in your full-sized van.
21. Strangers in the parking lot can’t help but notice your car looks like a clown car when everyone exits.
22. A travel-sized toothpaste tube is a one-day supply when you’re on vacation.
23. Family reunions include a circulated list of everyone’s birthdays.
24. You often need to rent a venue for gatherings because no one’s house is big enough.
25. Thanksgiving means cooking more than one turkey.
26. Naming your babies is a challenge since many names are already taken by relatives.
27. At Christmas, your kids draw names for gift-giving to keep things manageable.
28. Personal space? What’s that? No one has their own room.
29. When you go out with another family, people assume it’s a school field trip.
30. Getting everyone into the car is reminiscent of that famous scene from Home Alone.
31. Your oldest might be mistaken for a parent to the youngest at times.
32. By the time you help the last child with their winter gear, someone else is already cold and ready to come back inside.
33. Someone is always perched on your lap; as soon as one gets down, another is ready to climb up.
34. Capturing a family photo where everyone looks great is a near impossibility. You settle for one where at least one kid is making a silly face or crying.
35. New visitors are often astonished by the size of your dining table, and you still need to bring out folding chairs for guests.
36. You definitely have a big family if you’ve ever arrived somewhere only to find at least one child without shoes.

If any of these scenarios resonate with you, it’s clear you’re part of a wonderfully big family. Now gather everyone together and celebrate with a meal at that favorite fast-food spot! Those curious glances from strangers? They’re just impressed by how much love and fun can fit into one van.

For more insights on family and parenting, check out this blog post. If you’re considering starting or expanding your family, Make a Mom has some fantastic resources on at-home insemination kits. Additionally, ACOG provides excellent information on treating infertility for those looking to grow their families.

Summary:

Life in a big family can be chaotic, but it’s also filled with love and unforgettable moments. From managing birthday celebrations to navigating grocery trips, these signs highlight the joys and challenges of having a large family.