When it comes to having babies, one of the most common questions people ask is what the ideal age gap between children should be. Choosing the ideal age gap for your babies can be quite confusing for some parents. Some couples opt for close spacing so that they can enjoy their babies as newborns and toddlers together. Others choose to wait a few years between children to give themselves more time between pregnancies or to allow their firstborn more time as an only child. Every family is different, and every couple will have their own opinion on what works best for them. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer – it’s entirely up to the parents!
However, there are a few things to consider when deciding how much space to leave between your children. One is whether or not you feel capable of caring for multiple young children at once. For example, if you’re not sure you can handle the newborn stage again soon after having a baby, it might be best to wait a few years in between.
Another thing to consider is whether or not you feel like you need a break from pregnancy and child-rearing for a while! For example, if you’re exhausted from being pregnant or caring for a young child, it might be best to wait a bit before jumping into another pregnancy.
Of course, there are also financial considerations to take into account. Having children close together can be expensive, as you’ll likely need to buy two sets of everything (cribs, car seats, strollers, etc.). You might also need childcare for your older child while you’re pregnant with your second baby. If finances are a concern, you might want to space your children out a bit more so that you have some time to recover financially from your first child before adding another to the mix.
Small gap (under two years)
- Small gaps under two years will be the most exhausting periods of pregnancy and the early years done altogether. Your children will likely play together and be into similar activities, games and TV shows. On the other side, there can be an increased risk of complications in labour, including a rise in preterm birth. It can be tiring looking after a toddler when you’re pregnant. Moreover, toddlers might be jealous of or resent a new baby. You’ll have to buy more equipment as your eldest child probably isn’t ready to pass on their cot, buggy, etc.
Medium gap (two to four years)
- The medium age difference between two or four will have the lowest risk of having preterm birth and a low birth weight baby. In addition, you’ll be mostly up-to-date with your knowledge about all baby-related things. This age gap is the most common age gap preferred by moms.
Longer gap (over four years)
- A longer age gap of over four years allows a lot of one-on-one time with your newborn, as your older child will most likely be at school. In addition, your eldest child can help out when the baby arrives, as jealousy and resentment might be less of an issue. Gaps of over five years can also be associated with pregnancy and birth problems. Your children may be into different things with bigger gaps, so they are not as close until they’re much older. You can also reuse a lot of your baby’s equipment, which is financially beneficial.
As you can see, many things to consider when deciding on the ideal age gap for your babies. But ultimately, it’s up to you and your partner to decide what works best for your family. There is no right or wrong answer – it’s entirely up to you! So take some time to consider all the factors involved, and make the best decision for you and your family. Good luck!
Thanks for reading😊
