By 
The trend of one-child families is on the rise globally. Statistics show that in 2022, families with one child made up 44% (3.6 million) of all UK families with dependent children, according to the National Office of Statistics.
I grew up with three siblings and always thought I’d have at least two children. But life often doesn’t go as planned. After a challenging journey to parenthood, my husband and I have chosen to focus on the many benefits of raising just one child.
While I still see the joy in sibling relationships, being an “only” comes with its own wonderful perks. Here are the things I cherish about being a mother to my one and only.
For parents of only children, the fact that every “first” is also a “last” can feel bittersweet. It’s true, there’s only one first step, one first “mama.” But having one child allows me to truly savor those moments, free from the concern of splitting my attention. My daughter can stay the “baby” as long as she needs, and I’m able to focus all my love and attention on her.
I admit it—I often struggle with mom guilt. From worrying about her eating habits to wondering if I’ve played enough games, it’s a constant balancing act. But with one child, I feel lighter, with a little less pressure on my shoulders.
At two years old, my daughter doesn’t have a regular babysitter yet, but as she grows, I’m finding more time for myself. With multiple kids, this freedom would be much harder to come by. I can go to the gym or relax in a bath, knowing my husband isn’t overwhelmed by a crowd of little ones.
Finances are a big factor for many families, and traveling with multiple children can be costly. I hope that with just one child, we’ll have the flexibility to save for memorable trips—like visiting Disneyland or Lapland at Christmas.
Having one child also gives my husband and me more opportunities to nurture our relationship, which I believe is crucial for our family’s happiness.
Every outing with my daughter reminds me of the beauty in our duo. I can push her on the swing without needing to chase another child or accommodate another schedule. She’s at the heart of my world, and our bond is stronger because of it.
