As my daughter played with one of her little friends this morning, mocking giving a doll a bottle, I wondered if that will ever become a real-life scene in our household. My daughter's friend has a little sister, almost five months old, and she is often mentioned in reference to her friend. So babies are on the radar.
Our daughter may be an only child, who knows. But her life is full and happy, she is sociable and independent. During the school term she goes to playgroup, music, and swimming, has two playdates a week and has lots of visits to the local playgrounds and beach. She has strong bonds with one Nana and a couple of other adults as well as her parents. She also has two little friends that she adores. She has not suffered up to this point.
So I am reminded to let go of negative thoughts around raising an only child. Only doesn't have to equate to lonely. There are positives, obviously. With two parents on board that has meant undivided attention, and shared parenting. In the long-term if we raise just one child we would have more freedom in buying our first home, with holidays, our finances in general as well as me being able to work longer hours in the workforce sooner rather than later, in whatever form.
Seeing the above as a possible reality, and emphasising the good points, helps me in getting to a place of acceptance around whatever the size of our family turns out to be. I know several families consisting of one child that are doing just fine. If that's how we turn out, I'm sure we'll do just as great.
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