While I have chosen a life without children, there are moments when I find myself contemplating the joys of raising kids. The reasons for parenthood are often well-known: building a nurturing family, fostering conscientious individuals who will positively impact society, and cherishing the unique milestones of a child’s development. Additionally, there are the warm, unconditional bonds that come from loving and being loved by a child, not to mention their undeniable cuteness. However, beyond these widely acknowledged benefits, there are several lesser-known perks of parenting that I find quite intriguing. Here are nine of them.
1. A Convenient Exit from Phone Calls
Parents often have the perfect excuse to cut a conversation short. “I’d love to continue this discussion, but oh no, the baby is crying! I’ll call you back.” For those of us without kids, simply saying “I don’t want to talk anymore” or “I was just about to browse inflatable travel pillows on Amazon” doesn’t quite carry the same weight.
2. Assistance with Household Tasks
Having children means an increase in chores, but it also provides an opportunity to delegate tasks like clearing the table and washing dishes. Although the workload may increase, parents can enlist their little ones to help out, making household management a bit more manageable.
3. Priority Boarding on Flights
Many frequent flyers strive for elite status to board planes early, but parents traveling with young children enjoy this privilege without any special status. The chaos of boarding with a stroller and a crying baby is a small price to pay for the assurance of securing overhead bin space.
4. An Excuse to Indulge in Ice Cream
One friend of mine loves to indulge in ice cream almost daily during summer, attributing it to her daughter’s cravings. This creates sweet, nostalgic memories of childhood, allowing parents to enjoy treats guilt-free.
5. Access to Children’s Concerts
Imagine being able to attend live concerts featuring artists like The Laurie Berkner Band without feeling out of place. Parents get to experience these lively performances alongside their children, creating lasting memories in the process.
6. Extra Storage Space
Strollers often come equipped with numerous hooks, bins, and baskets, making them ideal for carrying personal belongings. Parents can effortlessly transport their items, leaving them free from the burden of carrying everything in their hands.
7. Freedom from Unwanted Invitations
On shows like The Real Housewives of New York City, characters often escape awkward social events by citing parenting obligations. While I wouldn’t want to leave a tropical vacation early, having a socially acceptable excuse to decline an invitation would be wonderful.
8. The Joy of Theme Parks and Playgrounds
Parents have a legitimate reason to enjoy attractions like Disney World, water slides, and jungle gyms without drawing judgment. The thrill of roller coasters and climbing structures can be relished guilt-free when accompanied by children.
9. A Second Chance at Ivy League Admissions
Though it’s often said that parents shouldn’t live vicariously through their children, I can’t help but envision helping my child apply to prestigious institutions like Yale. With the wisdom and experience I possess now, I would certainly lend my insight to their application process.
In conclusion, while the joys of parenthood are plentiful, there are also unique, often overlooked benefits that parents enjoy. These perks provide both practical advantages and opportunities for fun that can make the parenting journey even more rewarding. If you’re exploring options for starting a family, consider checking out resources like Boost Fertility Supplements or the IVF process for valuable information and guidance.
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