Should I have kids close in age or farther apart?

My partner and I just had our first child. We’re brand new parents! Anyway, she’s almost a year and we’re starting to decide if we want to try to have another child sooner or later. Parents, what are your opinions on having kids close in age or a bit more spaced out? Does it really make a difference?

2 Likes 3 Replies

PK

Phuong posted July 1, 2019

From a convenience standpoint, if your kids are closer in age it makes things a bit easier. You’re not taking kids to as many different schools because most of the time their age allows them to go to school together. Hand-me-down clothes work out perfectly, they play together more, it’s nice. Farther in age can be nice though because if they’re more than 5 years apart then the older one will sometimes be like a mini parent and like helping you out with caring for the little one as he/she grows up! 0 Likes

BJ

Brittany posted July 1, 2019

I have three kids. The oldest and youngest actually get along the nicest. I think having some space in between ages gets rid of any chance for sibling rivalry and gets rid of a lot of fighting! Wouldn’t change anything though. 0 Likes

MY

Marcus posted August 13, 2019

I think it's definitely up to you as parents to decide when you are ready for baby number two. However, from a health stand point, The World Health Organization recommends at least a two-year space between pregnancies. "Studies have suggested that intervals shorter than 18 months are associated with increased risk to the infant—including preterm birth, low birth weight, small size for their gestational age, and NICU admissions," notes Dr. Harold. On the positive side your children are close by age. On that flip side, that also means you'll feel like you just went through baby to toddler mode, and now have to do it all over again. But if you as parents are ready and your doctor has given you the all clear, then you should be fine! 0 Likes