I’ve been wanting to share my thoughts on this topic for some time now. Truth be told, I’ve been hoping to write anything at all lately. However, I must make this quick since I have a very short window before my 19-month-old decides to engage in any of the following activities:
- Fishing snacks out of the trash
- Struggling, with only partial success, to yank out the electrical outlet covers
- Opening the oven door
- Taking charge of the stove
- Discovering a steak knife at the bottom of the dishwasher and triggering a potential child safety crisis
- Defying sleep like a champion
- Forcing childproof locks off cabinets with sheer determination
- Relocating my car keys to undisclosed locations
Perhaps my brain has become foggy over the past year and a half, but I distinctly recall hearing various clichés about third children during my pregnancy. People said things like, “They just go with the flow. They have to.” or “They’re sooo mellow!”
Interesting perspective, I thought. Also, the word nonsense comes to mind.
While I understand that generalizations exist for a reason, I’m starting to believe these are the same folks who assured me that I would eventually forget the agony of childbirth or that a single square of chocolate could satisfy my sweet tooth.
Friends, let me tell you: my kitchen cabinets are locked down. My outlets are secured. Doors remain closed when rooms are not in use. These were precautions I never took with my first two children. In fact, I may have even rolled my eyes at those who did.
I admire my youngest child for his determination to leave his mark on our family and for his well-defined strategy to do so. His plan has four key components:
- Stay awake at all costs
- Create a unique path of chaos
- Relocate any important items to top-secret toddler hideouts
- Never, ever let go of the colander
This last point is crucial. My little one has an unwavering attachment to my kitchen utensils. Forget about those tiny pots and pans—I tried that route, and it didn’t work. So, while Tupperware and various serving tools might be his sacred treasures, be prepared for a storm of fury if you even think about taking that colander from him.
While some kids cling to security blankets or stuffed animals, mine cherishes a pasta strainer as if it were a prized possession. It’s no shock, really, given our family’s history of carb enthusiasts.
When not in a warrior stance with his stainless steel cookware, he can typically be found hoarding and stacking random items—from DVDs to princess accessories, and even spices. These treasures often turn up in the most unexpected places days or weeks later. Just the other day, while about to toss an old Christmas gift box, I discovered my paprika, my sunglasses, and my older son’s overdue library book, along with some half-eaten crackers tucked away inside.
Ask me how many minutes I spend each day searching for the remote control. We can all thank him for our reduced screen time.
So, the stereotype of the relaxed third child? Not applicable here. He yearns to be part of the action, eager to join his siblings in their noise, chaos, and games. He is always busy, always on the move, and always wanting to be held. He doesn’t want to miss out on a single moment.
And yet, occasionally—just very occasionally—he is still long enough for me to find my keys and wash out the colander.
For more insights, check out our article about the truth of having a third child. Also, for those interested in child safety, this resource offers valuable information. If you’re seeking guidance about fertility treatments, WebMD provides excellent resources.
Summary
The post humorously debunks the myth that third children are calm and easy-going. Instead, the author details the lively and chaotic nature of her 19-month-old, who is anything but mellow. The piece highlights the challenges and joys of parenting a third child, emphasizing their desire to be involved and active in family life.