The Pros of Having Just One Child

One mums opinions... do you agree?

• Everyone knows that children are expensive and the cost only goes up the more kids you have. Some people would prefer to make the decision that they simply can’t afford to have more rather than feel the pressure later.
• Childcare costs in this country are extortionate and if a woman wants to continue working full time they may actually end up out of pocket if they have to put two children or more in a crèche.
• Negative equity is still a huge issue and parents may not have the choice of upgrading their home to fit a bigger family. If you are stuck for space as a family of 3, conditions will only get more cramped if you become a family of 4.
• A good education is one of the most important things you can give your child but you may not be able to afford to send your children to the school you want if you have more than one. One on one time between a parent and their child is also far easier if you don’t have to split yourself in half.
• Having two kids means that they each have a playmate and can entertain each other without the parent having to join in all the time. However they also have someone to argue, fight and bicker with. While they do learn to share most kids will spend considerable time with other children their own age at crèches, playgrounds or play centres and so will learn this skill anyway.
• Some mothers will love being a parent however they will know that they simply won’t enjoy it as much if they feel pressured into having a second. Some feel that it is inevitable that life will get more complicated and chaotic and they would prefer to keep things as simple and stress free as possible.
• Sticking to one means that there is a more equal balance between time with our child and ‘me’ time or time as a couple. While this sounds selfish it is important for our wellbeing that we can switch off and unwind and it is also vital for our relationship with our partner that we spend quality time alone.
• If you know from the start that you’ll be happy sticking to one it makes it a little easier to enjoy the experience knowing that you’ll only go through it once. From sleepless nights to endless nappy changes, having an end in sight makes them easier to handle.