When my family and I recently relocated to a new neighborhood, I encountered an older woman just a few doors down. Her expression shifted from surprise to disbelief when I casually mentioned that I have four children. “Four? Four?!” she repeated, then looked me in the eye and declared, “I suppose that’s fine, as long as they’re quiet.” She was completely serious.
I chuckled nervously, treating it like a joke, but inside, I felt a wave of embarrassment wash over me.
I can empathize with her viewpoint. After all, this is her street, and she’s likely lived there for decades. Change can be difficult, and for her, it might feel as if the peacefulness of her surroundings is being disrupted by a bustling family.
Yet, I often get the impression that merely existing with my children is seen as a bother. It’s not about any specific behavior, but rather the fear of what they “might” do. While waiting for our passports at the airport, I could sense the heavy sighs from fellow travelers behind us, as if they were thinking, “Seriously? This is ridiculous.” I wanted to turn around and remind them, “Just so you know, we purchased six tickets. You only bought one. We belong here just as much as you do.”
Children are an integral part of society, and it’s time to accept that you don’t have an exclusive right to a child-free existence. It’s perfectly fine if you choose not to have kids and prefer adult-only events, but don’t expect us to keep our kids out of shared spaces like parks, sidewalks, grocery stores, and yes, even restaurants (I take my kids out to eat, and I stand by that).
We teach our children to respect others and behave appropriately. They know to offer their seats to elderly passengers on the train, to make eye contact during a handshake, and to say “please” and “thank you.” While they may not always hit the mark, I can confidently say they do a commendable job. Beyond that, I refuse to apologize for being a parent or for my kids being… well, kids.
I won’t apologize for their laughter echoing through the neighborhood as they ride their bikes. Sure, I encourage them to keep the noise down, but I don’t feel guilty when an excited shout escapes them. They’re just being kids, and that’s a natural part of life.
Recently, when we applied to rent a particular house, the property manager shot back a curt email saying, “Sorry, this house is too small for your family.” It was a three-bedroom—exactly the kind of home we’ve always lived in. It felt like a blatant dismissal from someone who didn’t want to deal with children (if you find yourself in a similar situation, know your rights).
These so-called “annoying kids” are our future. A crying baby on an airplane isn’t trying to ruin your flight; they may be experiencing discomfort. You can always put on your headphones and enjoy your music. Trust me, the child and their parents are facing a far tougher situation than you are.
I’m not looking for an argument (though one might ensue), nor am I trying to vilify anyone who finds kids bothersome. Honestly, I get annoyed by my own kids sometimes—let’s grab a glass of wine and vent about it together. The reality is, kids are a part of life. Period.
In my view, they bring immeasurable joy and light to the world. I certainly adore mine.
During a recent visit to a local church, I was heartened to see all generations represented and welcomed warmly. The kids were greeted like family, receiving handshakes and even crayons to keep them occupied. It was a heartwarming reminder that we are all in this together.
We need one another—grandparents and grandchildren, infants and energetic four-year-olds, and everyone in between—like it or not. For further insights on family planning and parenting, you might find this article on donor insemination extremely helpful. Plus, if you’re considering starting a family, check out this guide on at-home insemination kits to get you started. If you’re interested in more parenting insights, visit Modern Family Blog for authoritative content on the subject.
In summary, my message is clear: children are not an inconvenience. They are a vibrant part of our communities, and it’s time to embrace their presence with open arms.