To have a third child?

[gloriousglitter]

I have two daughters ages 14 years old (from a previous relationship) and 10 months old. Obviously there's a big age gap between them, I didn't think I would end having having another but I always wanted to have more than one. Having an only child never felt quite right, mainly because my daughter really wanted a sibling, nearly all her friends had siblings and she felt quite bored and lonely sometimes. She's very happy to have her sister and they're already forming a close bond but they'll never exactly grow up together and she may be off to uni or moving out in a few years time. Then it will almost be like having an only child again and obviously that might suit my youngest more than it did my oldest but it would be nice to have two close in age. I'm a bit worried about how difficult having two young children would be but I'm sure I'd get through and get used to it.

Are you married and in a financial position to afford another child?

If so, go for it. But don't do it purely because you think your youngest will be unhappy without a sibling, all children are different, I'm an only myself and was perfectly happy.

I am married and can afford another child. I suppose that is one of the main reasons I started to consider having another child but certainly not the only reason, I would really like to have another in general

If you’re in a stable position and that’s what you and your DH would like then go for it. I wouldn’t say it’s unreasonable at all.

Out of interest, what makes you think it might be unreasonable? If you don’t want to say that’s fine of course, but if there are niggling doubts or worries maybe we can offer a bit more in terms of advice.

One thing I will say is having two under 5 can be quite difficult, I’m a mum to twins who have just turned 2 and it’s one hell of a balancing act. But if you’re aware of the potential difficulties of having 2 so close in age and have strategies in place then it can be done

I had a number 3 and he is a complete delight, made our family complete etc. 2 close in age isn't easy but if your older child is helpful and wants to be involved it certainly makes things easier. Go for it