Third child?

[Ceecee89]

I have a son (9) and a daughter (2). My husband and I have been wondering whether to have a third. I am 1 of 3 and never wanted 3 children, my husband is an only child.
The age gap between my kids is 7 years and I'm aware that my son will likely not be interested in playing with my daughter soon and that's makes me feel sad for her and it'll be like she's an only child.
My upbringing was 3 children under the age of 4, so my situation is completely different.
I suppose I'm seeing if there is anyone that completely regrets either having a third (or more) or regrets NOT having their third.

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/family_planning/5355548-3-children-yes-or-no?reply=145023756

You express no desire for a third

indeed you clarify that you have “never” wanted a third

so no Op, I don’t think a third would be a good idea for you

I have three. But really wanted a third when I had my third. And I knew I was done after 3. A friend had 3rd after a gap, and knew almost immediately she wanted to do it again.

You don’t sound like you want a third. Neither does your husband.

A 3rd child is another set of school shoes, car seat, school uniform, uni fees. The holidays are trickier (ie more expensive) as family of 5. Of course, if you want this, you can make it work. But don’t do for a ready made playmate - that doesn’t always work the way you think.

I don’t think I’ve ever read a less enthusiastic OP asking whether she should have a third!

I have one and will try for a second and I’m an only child honestly I’m happy with one but I dont think it’s fair to her as we have no family or cousins for her her age so she would literally have no other family growing up , it’s really interesting because I’ve been doing a little reading and research and apparently (take with a pinch of salt) the happiest families all round are those with two kids and with between a 2-4 year age gap . Parents are happier , have a better relationship and kids are happier as they have a companion but aren’t necessarily competing for attention the same way they would be if they were say 2 under two. Personally my MH couldn’t take having 3 either.

Such an odd post. Parenting 3 through teenage years is a lot and peri often hits by then. Friends with 3 are flagging. Made me very glad I only have two as frankly could not be arsed to do the 14-21 stage a third time would rather be doing my own thing / travelling etc at 50. But if you love parenting go for it I guess.

Worst thing I ever did.

I have three and although I adore them all, three is a LOT. DC3 was by far the hardest baby (a terrible sleeper and a really tricky toddler). He's lovely now but three teens brings its own challenges! Don't do it OP unless it's something you really want, which it doesn't sound like it is.

If you are a dedicated parent who really loves parenting and wants to do it for an extra 5 or so years when you could otherwise be doing your own thing then go for it. I’m definitely not in that bracket.