When I tell people I have six kids, their reactions can be quite amusing. Admittedly, there are moments when I question my choices, ponder the world they will inherit, and reflect on the environmental impact of such a large family. However, the majority of the time, I simply revel in the joys of having six children. Here are six compelling reasons to celebrate a big family:
1. Cost-Effective Parenting
During the economic downturn a few years back, I was asked if it would affect my decision to have more children. My answer was a definitive “No.” I refuse to allow economic concerns or practicality to dictate my family size. The reality is that the costs associated with raising children are largely determined by how you choose to do it. While there is an initial expense when welcoming your first child, having more kids often means maximizing that investment. I look at our well-worn baby gear and realize we’ve gotten great value for our money. Hand-me-downs are a way of life, and my youngest children have yet to experience the thrill of brand new clothes. Yes, college expenses loom on the horizon, but we’re financially preparing, and my kids will learn the value of hard work through summer jobs and student loans. Ultimately, being able to afford children is subjective; I may not have a luxury vehicle, but I can certainly support my six kids.
2. Developing Kindness
There’s a common belief that kids from larger families tend to be more considerate. While this may not be universally true, I have my theories. It’s tough to spoil children when there are many of them, and I simply cannot buy high-end toys for each child. Sharing is a way of life in our home, and my older kids often help the younger ones, fostering independence and cooperation. As a result, my children are less materialistic and more capable of sharing, traits that are often associated with being “nice.”
3. Sleep? What Sleep?
Let’s be real: when you have young children, sleep and personal time are already a luxury you can hardly imagine. You’re in full parenting mode—your social life may be non-existent, and every outing feels like an expedition. Adding a couple more kids into the mix doesn’t drastically change this reality. If you’ve managed to adjust to two children, then adding a few more is just a matter of juggling. While chaos is part of the package, the joys and benefits of a big family far outweigh the challenges.
4. Built-In Playmates
“My kids are bored” is a phrase I rarely hear. That’s because they have each other to play with! While sibling squabbles do happen, they also spend countless hours entertaining themselves, whether it’s playing in the yard or getting lost in imaginative games. I love spending time with my kids, but I also appreciate that they can play together without needing my constant involvement.
5. Fostering Social Skills
My oldest child has autism, and having three younger siblings has proven invaluable for his development. They engage him, encourage his participation in play, and help him work on his social skills. While I didn’t have a large family just for this reason, the sibling dynamic has created countless opportunities for him to interact and grow in ways that are crucial for his development.
6. Future Caregivers
Those six kids? They’ll be my support system in my later years! They can take turns caring for me when the time comes. Who needs a retirement home when you have a built-in network of caregivers? And trust me, they’ve got their work cut out for them—especially after all the diaper changes I’ve managed over the years.
Bonus Reason
Just look at those six smiling faces—they say it all.
If you’re interested in exploring options for starting your own family, consider checking out some great resources like UCSF’s Center for pregnancy and home insemination. Also, for more information on home insemination strategies, you can visit CryoBaby’s blog or consult Intracervical Insemination for authoritative guidance.
In summary, having six kids creates a dynamic, cost-effective, and enriching family life filled with love, support, and unique experiences.