Everything we do is loud and chaotic, and honestly, I’m worn out.
I’m chasing my 14-month-old around a party venue, dodging potential hazards while handing her tiny bits of pizza crust to prevent a meltdown. We’re at a birthday celebration for a 6-year-old, and my three older kids are glued to their seats, buzzing with excitement for the komodo dragon reveal. Within five minutes, just as they’re about to unveil the second animal, my 6-year-old spots a balloon that has floated free from a decorative arch. Before I can stop him, he seizes it and heads to the back of the room. Alone, he starts an intense game of trying to keep the balloon airborne. My oldest quickly notices and joins in — suddenly, they’re yelling and darting around, completely uninterested in the reptiles. Meanwhile, my daughter sits with the group, captivated by the tree frog perched on the presenter’s hand. Until, of course, she isn’t — then she’s doing a bizarre yoga pose on all fours, shouting that she’s thirsty.
As I scan the room, I realize my kids aren’t the only ones creating their own fun; there are others too, but we’re the only entire family in this chaotic mix. I’ve got a full house of energetic kids, and it’s no surprise that while most families have at least one child with a bit of calm, I have none. And I’m really tired.
Every outing is loud and messy. A trip to the park usually ends with two boys drenched in swamp water, a 4-year-old climbing the slide while yelling at other kids, and a baby munching on mulch. Dining out involves food fights, spilled drinks, and — in one unforgettable incident — a napkin catching fire right on the table. I have four high-energy kids: fiery, boisterous, and perpetually high maintenance.
I watch my friends with three or more kids, and they always seem to have at least one who is a bit more chill. You know, the one who doesn’t require extensive planning and who can occasionally calm the others down. I need one of those. Someone who gets lost in a Harry Potter book, wears whatever I pick out, and eats what’s on their plate without making a fuss. Someone who isn’t constantly trying to raise the stakes in every situation.
My kids’ motto seems to be “anything for a laugh.” So, what should be normal scenes morph into chaotic improv shows when they arrive. Take waiting outside the school for my oldest — all the younger siblings are playing together nicely, and then my middle two get out of the car. My 7-year-old starts an impromptu parkour session, jumping from benches to boulders, while I shout for him to stop just in time for him to land and strike a dance pose, seeking approval from his peers. My 4-year-old spots someone inside and starts shaking her butt, waving her finger while laughing. The baby screams from the back seat, frustrated that she has to entertain herself for a few minutes, and I attempt to wrangle the kids back into the car. Just as we’re leaving, my oldest blows up when his brother brushes against him. It’s a loud, chaotic, zero-chill scenario every single time.
One child with a bold personality can significantly impact a family dynamic. Their mood sets the tone for the day, and their energy can fill a room. With four of these vibrant kids all vying for attention, life in our home is a whirlwind. Emotions run high, and none of them seem to have the ability to self-regulate like others do. It sometimes feels like they’re all just raw nerves, their feelings hanging out for everyone to see. No zen, just pure, electric chaos from all corners.
Yet, amidst all the noise and energy, there’s an incredible joy. While other parents manage to carve out pockets of calm, I’m living in a delightful circus that feels like it could fuel a sitcom. Laughter is abundant, and hugs are fierce. The expressions of excitement and happiness are loud and contagious. I’m navigating a wild, fun-filled life with four uniquely spirited kids. But every now and then, I could really use a nap.
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Summary
Life with four energetic kids is a whirlwind of chaos and laughter. From chaotic birthday parties to loud park outings, each day is a vibrant mix of noise and unpredictability. While I long for a moment of calm, the joy they bring makes it all worthwhile.