Thoughts on having another baby?
I am going to be 37 in the fall. I had our first son in 2020 and our second son in 2023, they are two years and two months apart. For each child, I took off almost 2 years unpaid leave from teaching (it's an option in our contract), and so I've only really worked 6 months in the past 3 years since having babies. I'm due to return to teaching this fall, and I'm also feeling like I would like one final baby if we are able to have more kids. My brain reminds me I'm tired, we're living on a tight budget (husband is a teacher also), we're overwhelmed with two little kids now, and we don't have any family nearby to help us. My heart reminds me that I love my boys beyond belief, I have never felt more purpose in life before them, and I would love for them to have another sibling. If I have another baby, I will take a long unpaid leave again, which means things will remain tight, but also means I can be home with my kids longer. One thing I think about is we don't have a big enough vehicle for three car seats in the backseat, and cars are very expensive. How did you decide whether or not to have more? For those of you who went from 2 to 3, what were the age gaps? Challenges? Anything easier than expected? Did you return to work?
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You mention a “tight budget” “being overwhelmed” and having “no family”. Those are all major things to consider. You don’t mention whether your spouse wants another child. A lot of women want a “baby” but consider that you will have to raise a whole human to adulthood. The baby phase is a short time. Just something to think about. Best of luck in your decision!
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That’s so lovely you wish to grow your family. It’s difficult when there are so many ‘life decisions’ and practicalities to consider - but well done because ultimately, those things matter. I think you have to decide if long term family goals of 3 children, is worth the financial, emotional and time stresses for both you and also your boys. Can your partner cope with another / lack of finances ? Wishing you all the best with your decisions!