Is it Bad to Only Have One Child?

The question of whether having only one child is a good or bad decision is often debated. Some say it’s selfish, others believe it’s perfect for their lifestyle, and a few think that it might have long-term consequences for the child. So, what’s the truth? Is it bad to have only one child? Well, let’s explore this from multiple angles.

The Emotional and Social Aspects of Raising an Only Child

The Loneliness Myth

First, let’s address one of the most common concerns: that an only child will grow up lonely. Honestly, I used to think that too before my friend, Sarah, had her only child. Sarah is a single mom, and she raised her daughter, Lily, in a loving environment. It’s been years, and Lily is incredibly social. She has close friends and enjoys plenty of playdates. The idea that an only child is doomed to loneliness is largely a myth.

Children with siblings can also feel lonely, depending on their relationship with their siblings or the quality of social interactions they have. The key is fostering strong friendships and exposing them to diverse social settings. So, no, your child doesn’t have to feel alone just because they’re an only child.

Fewer Sibling Conflicts

On the flip side, some parents might find that with only one child, there's less conflict at home. I remember growing up with two brothers, and while we had great moments, there were plenty of arguments too. The idea of a peaceful home with no bickering over toys, video games, or whose turn it was to do the dishes sounds pretty appealing, right? For many, having one child means less fighting and a quieter, more harmonious household.

The Financial Aspect of Raising an Only Child

Financial Burden: Are You Better Off?

Let’s face it—raising children isn’t cheap. According to recent studies, it can cost over $200,000 to raise one child until the age of 18 in the United States. With only one child, you might think that your finances could be a bit less strained. You can afford better educational opportunities, more vacations, or maybe even invest more in extracurricular activities.

However, it's important to note that raising a single child doesn’t necessarily mean more disposable income. It’s not uncommon for parents of an only child to overindulge, leading to increased costs in other areas like special treatments, extracurricular activities, and private schooling. So while you might save in some areas, don’t assume it’s always a breeze financially.

A Stable Financial Future for One?

Interestingly, many parents of one child find it easier to save for their child's future. With fewer dependents, there might be more room to set aside money for college funds or other long-term investments. Personally, I’ve spoken to several parents who feel they can give their child a more stable financial future due to fewer expenses in the household.

The Impact on Parenting: Are You Doing Enough?

More Attention and Focus on One Child

One of the benefits of having just one child is the ability to provide undivided attention. I know a few parents who’ve told me that they appreciate how they can focus entirely on their child’s needs—be it their education, emotional growth, or health. They feel more connected to their child because they aren’t spread thin between siblings. This level of attention can foster a deep parent-child bond and often results in a more secure and confident child.

But, on the other hand, being the only child can come with its own pressures. Parents might unintentionally expect more from them, especially as they’re the sole recipient of their attention. These kids might feel like they need to live up to their parents' high expectations, which could lead to anxiety. It’s all about balance.

The “Only-Child” Stereotype: Should You Be Worried?

There’s also a stereotype about only children: they’re spoiled, self-centered, or even selfish. I’ve seen this stereotype play out in the way some people view my cousin’s son, who is an only child. Sure, he gets lots of attention, but he’s also one of the most considerate kids I know. He often shares his things and always checks if others are okay. The idea that all only children are selfish or spoiled is simply untrue.

That said, it’s important for parents to ensure their only child has opportunities to learn empathy and the importance of sharing. This can be done by encouraging friendships, teaching the importance of giving, and fostering teamwork in everyday situations.

The Decision: Is It Bad to Have Only One Child?

The Bottom Line: It’s Not About the Number

So, is it bad to have only one child? Well, there’s no definitive answer because it really depends on the parents' preferences, circumstances, and the child’s needs. What’s more important is how you raise that child. Whether you have one, two, or five children, the emotional, social, and educational environment you provide will determine their growth and happiness.

I’ve come to realize, after talking with friends and reading about others’ experiences, that the "one-child" family can be just as fulfilling and well-balanced as families with more children. The key is ensuring that your child grows up in an environment that supports their emotional well-being, social skills, and personal development.

In the end, whether you have one child or several, your goal should be to raise a happy, healthy, and well-rounded person. The number doesn’t matter nearly as much as the quality of the relationship and care you provide.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.