To what extent is having a second child a healthy option for the family? When weighing the pros and cons, many couples face the dilemma of whether or not to have a second child and what this could entail, both in terms of benefits and challenges.

The choice to have a second child should first and foremost come from open dialogue and agreement between the couple, never from external social pressure or from the firstborn themselves. Recent studies published by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) show that in 2010 the fertility rate was 1.86 children per woman compared to 2.38 in 2000.

This decline was mainly due to more accessible contraceptive methods for the entire population. The study also highlights that in the 1990s, one in every ten mothers had only one child. Today, this figure is one in every three. Therefore, the decision to have only one child has become increasingly common, with a variety of reasons leading to that choice. Is It Healthier to Have Only One Child or More?

What Is the Best Option for Your Family? Tips to Help with Your Decision:

Don’t Act on Impulse

This is a very personal decision for each family. It is necessary to analyze the couple’s available time to meet all the needs that come with the arrival of a new baby. It is a decision that should be made thoughtfully and according to the family’s wishes. Carefully evaluating the pros and cons will help you make a choice you won’t regret later.

A Decision for the Entire Family

Never make this choice just to satisfy the needs of one member, such as the father, mother, or only child. Taking care of a baby is a task that requires a lot of dedication, so the whole family should be prepared and willing to help out however they can on a daily basis. If one family member is not truly willing to take on such a big responsibility, having another child can bring irritation and overload instead of joy.

Prepare for Change

All family rules and routines will be altered with a new baby’s birth. Before deciding to have another child, be aware of these changes and start gradually adapting to the new family routine. The couple’s relationship will undergo changes, as will daily life with the firstborn, who will have to share attention and gain more independence with their own tasks.

Assess the Physical Structure of Your Home and the Parents’ Emotional Readiness

You’ll need to consider a comfortable space to house another child. Does your home have enough space for this arrangement? Over time, one room for both may not be sufficient, and overall expenses will also be doubled.

When both parents work outside the home, the arrival of a new baby should be considered even more carefully, since it can increase the parents’ burden. Evaluating every detail of your daily life is crucial to prevent future problems. Consider:

  • Who will take care of both children?
  • Will I need to hire a housekeeper to help with chores?
  • Do we have the financial resources available for these types of expenses?
  • What can I still use from the last baby layette?
  • Am I prepared to give up something I consider important in my life, such as my career?

IMPORTANT: Assess Whether You Can Cover All Expenses.

Now you will not have just one child, but two who will require the same care and expenses. Thinking about your plans is essential when deciding to have a baby. Some parents plan projects for their children, such as studying in a bilingual school, taking courses, or doing an exchange program. Will you be able to offer the same opportunities to both? If not, how important is that to you and what can you do about it?

Time to Dedicate

How is your attention span with just one child? This can give you an idea of how things will be with another. If life is already hectic with just one child, imagine with two! It’s important to closely observe your family routine and remember that a baby requires 100% attention and care, starting from scratch.

Taking into account the future baby’s life is a responsible and necessary act. Don’t think only of yourself or your own desires, but about what the child’s routine will be and whether you are ready to share all your attention with two children, both financially and emotionally. Is the couple willing to share all the housework, childcare, and education? All these points must be carefully considered.

See also: Second Child – Share the Love or Multiply It?

Photo: sathyatripodi