When I was a child, I delighted in playing with baby dolls — gently rocking them, wrapping them snugly, and outfitting them in countless adorable ensembles. I even had one of those unappealing dolls that could be fed water only for it to emerge from the other end. I suppose changing diapers was deemed entertaining. I envisioned that having a baby would be the highlight of parenting, filled with charming attire, tiny shoes, and heartwarming baby smiles. That was the aspect of motherhood I eagerly anticipated.
However, as my children have grown older, I’ve come to recognize a different reality. It’s a delightful reality where I feed a child and remain blissfully uninvolved in what happens afterward. My kids are now entertaining, witty, and truly human individuals with their own ideas and opinions. When people inquire if I plan to have another baby, my ovaries instinctively retreat from their partnership with my uterus.
There are numerous beautiful aspects to embrace during this cherished phase of parenting when the desire for more children has faded:
- You Only Clean Surfaces.
No more wiping others’ faces or hands; you only need to focus on your own. - Fewer Safety Concerns.
You worry less about electrical outlets, stairs, or the possibility of toddlers engaging in dangerous antics. Older kids remember to look both ways before crossing the street, making life significantly less stressful—at least until they start driving. - Self-Dressing is the Norm.
Simply tell them, “Go put your shoes on,” and you can expect it to happen in about five hours. - Independent Playtime.
They can entertain themselves for longer than five minutes, so you no longer have to monitor every little activity, like the misuse of Sharpies or the adventurous exploration of dirt. - No More Car Seats.
This might seem trivial until you realize you’ve spent a decade buckling and unbuckling children in car seats—over 18,000 times! - Household Help.
They can assist with chores like carrying groceries and cleaning. I recently told my son that I started doing dishes at 10, and now that he is the same age, I might just retire from that duty. - Enjoyable Movie Nights.
You can watch films that don’t include the word “princess” or play games that are not solely focused on learning ABCs. Family bike rides are now a possibility where everyone rides their own bike, and dining out has become a more enjoyable experience. - Growing Independence.
My son, now in fourth grade, enjoys the privilege of walking to and from the school bus alone, feeling like the coolest kid around. He is ready for more responsibilities, and I am more than willing to provide them. - Calmer Emotions.
Though we still experience the occasional emotional outburst, my older kids are no longer throwing tantrums in public places or being carried out of establishments due to minor disappointments. - Engaging Conversations.
It’s fascinating to witness their thoughts and feelings as they articulate them in full sentences. They can express if they are struggling or excited about something, even if their jokes are still painfully bad.
While the infant and toddler stages had their own joys, I find that I prefer the current stage of having older children. If only we could address those eye rolls and the aversion to showering, we’d be in a great place.
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