For a while now, I’ve been itching to put pen to paper—or fingers to keyboard, as it were. But with my 19-month-old on the loose, I have a limited time frame before chaos ensues. You know the drill:
- Digging through the trash for a snack
- Trying to remove the electrical outlet covers (and succeeding sometimes)
- Opening the oven with a mischievous grin
- Getting too close to the stove
- Uncovering a steak knife in the dishwasher, leading to a potential doll hostage crisis
- Resisting sleep like an Olympic champion
- Ripping childproof locks off cabinets with sheer willpower
- Relocating my car keys to undisclosed locations
Maybe my memory isn’t what it used to be, but I distinctly recall hearing all sorts of clichés about third children while I was pregnant with mine: “They just adapt! They’re so easygoing!”
Interesting perspective, I think. But also, let’s be real—complete nonsense.
Sure, generalizations are just that, but they often come from those who assure you that the pain of childbirth fades away or that a single chocolate square can curb your cravings.
Friends, my home is fortified like a fortress. Cabinets are locked, outlets are childproofed, and doors stay shut when rooms aren’t in use. These were precautions I never took with my first two kids! In fact, I may have rolled my eyes at those who did (guilty as charged, sorry!).
I deeply admire my youngest, who is hell-bent on making his presence known in our family. His strategy seems to consist of four core elements:
- Stay awake at all costs
- Create a distinctive trail of havoc
- Relocate important items to top-secret toddler hideouts
- Maintain a constant relationship with the giant colander
Yes, you read that correctly. My sweet boy has a particular affinity for kitchenware. Forget about the little pots and pans; I tried those, and they didn’t fly. Instead, the Tupperware and various utensils have become his treasure trove. Just be prepared for a torrent of toddler fury if you so much as suggest taking that colander away from him.
While some kids cling to blankets or stuffed animals, mine has formed an emotional bond with a pasta strainer. It’s not surprising, given our family’s history of carb enthusiasts.
When he’s not striking dramatic poses with his stainless steel gear, he’s busy hoarding and stacking anything he can find—DVDs, princess accessories, or even random spices. You might discover them weeks later in the most unexpected places. Just the other day, before tossing out an old gift box from Christmas, I stumbled upon my paprika, sunglasses, an overdue library book, and some half-eaten crackers.
And let’s not even get started on how many minutes I spend each day searching for the TV remote. So, yes, let’s give him credit for helping our family reduce screen time.
As for the myth of the mellow third child? Not even close. He craves to be part of the action, to be swept up in the whirlwind created by his older siblings. He’s always on the go, wanting to be involved in everything, and he definitely wants to be heard.
Yet, every once in a blue moon, he does pause—just long enough for me to find my keys and wash out that colander.
For more insights into parenting and the realities of having a third child, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. Also, if you’re considering starting your own family, don’t forget to explore our guide on the at-home insemination kit and how to use a cryobaby kit.
Summary:
The notion that third children are easygoing is a myth. Instead, they often exhibit high energy and a desire to be involved in everything their older siblings do. Parenting a third child can be chaotic, with unexpected surprises and the need for constant vigilance.
Keyphrase: third children are energetic
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