10 Signs You’re Ready For a Second Baby
Hi Mammas!
This post has been something we’ve been battling for what feels like forever – and has actually been years. We’ve been discussing having a second baby and adding to our family since our little one was about 18 months old. She’s now three and I’m not yet pregnant again.
I can’t believe it either. I turned around and my sweet and tiny baby is no longer quite so teeny tiny. She’s a full-fledged human in the throes of toddlerhood and runs around like a mad woman. Long gone are the days of putting the baby down and expecting her to remain there contentedly.
You might have always known that you wanted a second baby at some point, or you might have been on the fence after you had your first. But more and more frequently you’ve found yourself wondering, are we ready for another one?
It doesn’t help that from your baby’s first birthday onward you’ve probably been getting the question, “when’s the next one coming?” There’s no great answer. The lack of sleep combined with the whole scale change to your life during infancy, it may be something you feel like you’re never ready to tackle.
The age old question – should we have another or shouldn’t we, is something that many couples debate for years. If you’re having a second baby, make sure you know what to expect and that you’ve got your financial plan in order.
I originally published this post on Red Tri – so if you want the full details about having another child – check it out here.
If you’ve been on the fence for a while and are debating having another, here are the cliff’s notes version on whether you’re ready for another baby:
- Everything seems SO tiny. Was your little one ever really that little?
- You can’t quite remember the last time your babe had that new baby smell.
- You’re in the midst of or have considered potty training.
- Your firstborn carries around baby dolls and asks for a baby
- You finally lost all the baby weight from the first go round
- Sleeping through the night is no longer something that only happens to other people
- Sitting down and actually eating as a family isn’t a foreign concept. You haven’t had to eat with a baby in one arm for months now.
- Everyone in your kid’s class at daycare now has a baby sibling.
- You’re no longer breastfeeding.
- You’ve blacked out labor from the first time.
Should I have another baby?
That’s not to say that EVERYONE wants a second baby. There are actually studies that prove mothers of one are happiest. Just because you have nostalgia about those baby coos doesn’t always mean you’re ready to add to your family. Definitely weigh the pros and cons for your family, your goals, and your personal situation before you commit to a decision.
No one can tell you when you’re actually ready for another child. It’s something only you and your family can truly know. However, if you’ve experienced enduring nostalgia or hit any of the milestones above, you might just be more ready than you think!
It is a hard decision!!! So many pros and cons. And of course “mamas guilt” has never seemed so real. I’m sure whatever decision that people choose will be the best thing for them and their fams. Great article!!!!