They say the third child is often the charm, and honestly, my youngest (who is also my third) embodies that charm perfectly. He is an innate empath, bursting with laughter, energy, and love. Life without him is inconceivable. However, transitioning from two to three children brought about changes I never anticipated.
As the youngest of five, my mother often remarked that the toughest shift was moving from two to three kids. She claimed that once you added a fourth, the older siblings would help care for the newcomers. While I may never discover if she was correct about that fourth child, I can affirm her wisdom regarding the challenges of welcoming a third.
Here’s what I’ve discovered in my journey as a mother of three:
- Three Equals a Crowd.
With three children, one is frequently left out. On any given day, two of them might be teasing the third, leading to tears while the other two laugh. As the self-proclaimed supermom, I tirelessly strive to foster kindness and inclusivity, but it often devolves into a two-versus-one scenario, resulting in me uttering regrettable four-letter words. - Having Two Is Like a Mini Vacation.
When one child is away at a playdate or practice, it feels like pure bliss. With just two at home, there’s less chaos, fewer tears, and no shouting. In these serene moments, the kids appear more polite, using “please” and “thank you” and even cleaning up after themselves. You might wonder who these well-behaved beings are. While I’d never wish to part with a child, these fleeting instances of parenting just two are a well-earned treat. - Competition Is Constant.
“Dibs on the bathroom!” my daughter exclaims as we pull into the driveway, followed closely by my son declaring, “Dibs on the TV!” It’s a never-ending battle for everything—front seat, movie choices, you name it. They frequently turn to me as the referee to declare the winner of these unfair games. - Silence Is a Rare Commodity.
Whether I’m watching a movie, chatting on the phone, or cleaning, I can guarantee one of my children will interrupt at least every 30 seconds. This means no uninterrupted thoughts for me. With three children and just one of me, it’s okay to zone out occasionally, nodding along while mentally finishing my own thoughts. Prioritize sanity, friends. - Cherished One-on-One Time.
Those rare moments of individual time with each child—whether at dawn or during an unexpected sick day—become invaluable. You genuinely connect with your child in a new way, marveling at their unique traits. Yet, guilt may creep in, making you feel as if you’re falling short as a mother for not being able to give each child equal attention. Let that guilt go; you are enough. These moments are precious, so cherish them. - Deep Bonds.
Life as one of three is all they know, and beneath the squabbles and chaos lies a love indescribable in words. They comfort one another in tough times, lift each other’s spirits, and always have each other’s backs. Occasionally, you might catch a glimpse of them cuddling on the couch, proving the bond they share is unbreakable.
For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out this resource that can guide you in your journey. Also, visit this excellent blog for more information on pregnancy and home insemination. Discover more about navigating the intricacies of motherhood at Home Insemination Kit.
In summary, while raising three children is undeniably challenging, it also brings extraordinary moments of joy and connection that are worth every ounce of effort.
Leave a Reply