You've been wondering if you're ready to grow your family. These five moms, one dad, and one expert share how to recognize the signs that the time is right for you.
Listen to the little voice in your head
"We always knew how big a family we hoped for. It was one of the first topics of conversation when we started talking about marriage. The timing of when to have babies, and eventually when to have more, had to be something that we both agreed on. Each time, we listed the pros and cons but at the end of the day, it was that little voice and a huge leap of faith that got us to become the family of five we planned on."
— Johanna Torres, Mom.com editor and mom of three
Accomplish the goals you've set for yourself
"In my case, I felt it was time once I was out of my 20s and had accomplished a certain amount of goals I set for myself. And, of course, I felt the person I was in a relationship with was who was right to grow a family with."
— Erika Santos, mom of one
When your firstborn becomes more independent
"When I feel like I'm getting my life back. That means my toddler is now old enough where I don't have to be carrying him all the time, yet young enough that they'll be able to attend the same school together."
— Trang Le, mom of one
When you and your partner are 'on the same page'
"Deciding to grow your family is an intimate decision between you and your spouse. There are so many factors to consider from finances, to children's age gap, to timing to be able to actually conceive, etc. Most importantly, I think it is very important that you and your spouse are on the same page when it comes to expanding your family. Having a family is not always easy but it sure is rewarding!"
— Christy Quinn, mom of one
There's no 'perfect' time
"I’m not sure there’s a right answer for this. Everyone is different, but the time will never be perfect. Don’t put timelines on yourself for when and how you do it."
— Jacalyn Wetzel, MSW, LCSW-A, mom of four and author of Taming the Wild Child: A Practical Guide to Navigating the Early Years
When your older children are old enough to not resent a new baby
"Choosing to have another child is such a personal choice but, for me, it was a deep desire to have another person be a part of our family. I also felt like my first daughter at 3 years was old enough to not resent a new baby in the house."
— Nicole Coppola, mom of two
'Make sure you've enjoyed your days as a couple'
"It is a tricky question. As early as possible to reduce age-based complications. Also make sure you've enjoyed your days as a couple before planning to grow your family. Once the baby is on board, you will likely have less time to spend with each other."
— Anonymous, dad of two
