Many parents know that they would like to have several children, but when is the right time? And how much age difference to the first child is optimal?
One thing first: there is no such thing as the one, perfect time to have a second child.
When you and your partner feel ready, go for it!
Still, there are a few things you can consider before you decide.

Biological View

Most mothers have their first child much later these days. If you are planning to have more than one child, the biological clock argues for a shorter interval.
The probability of getting pregnant decreases with age.
The reason: fertility declines significantly after 35.

Pregnant Despite Breastfeeding?

If your first child is still small and you are still breastfeeding, the probability that you will become pregnant again directly is low. For many women, ovulation does not occur while they are breastfeeding their child. In some cases, it is still possible.

From The Parents’ Point Of View

Many parents want their first child to start kindergarten first.
Then they have a little more time for the new baby. Until then, the second child goes to kindergarten, the first goes to school and the mother can go back to work.

The Career

A smaller gap between two children, could offer better re-entry opportunities. The mother can take a career break once.
With a larger gap, there is more time to regain physical and mental strength. Working between baby breaks can also give you self-esteem and time off from changing diapers.

The Financial And Childcare Question

A second child also costs more money. The work becomes more, the care more complicated and the money tighter. If you’re struggling to make ends meet as it is, you may want to wait a little longer. Care should also be arranged in advance.
If the distance between siblings is small, you can directly vereben baby clothes and toys.

The Age Difference – Right After Each Other, Or Rather Wait 3 Years?

Both have their advantages and disadvantages. A smaller distance can promote a closer relationship between siblings.
They can play together, but rivalries can occur.
However, children quickly learn to band together as a unit against their parents.
Such experiences can foster the basis of a good relationship.

Parents experience the first, stressful years of the children’s lives together.
It is easier to spend free time together, as their interests are even more similar.
Both children can be placed in the same daycare center.
However, it is also more strenuous, parents have to do twice the work.

A Big Age Difference With The Second Child

Parents can pay a lot of attention to the first and the second child. The older child is already more independent, the risk of jealousy among the children is lower.
However, the greater age difference may make the relationship between the children less intimate.
Between the first and the second child, the mother had more time for herself again. It is also advantageous that the children can benefit from the different phases of life. For example, the older child can help with homework and act as a role model. However, one starts all over again and is followed by another baby break.

What relationship develops between their children is ultimately not only due to the age difference. Parents can support a close bond through family outings.
Much more important than the age difference is the love of both parents.

What Else Is There To Consider With The Second Child?

Besides the issues of financial, professional and age difference, there are other aspects that can be considered.
The female body needs some time to recover after childbirth. Another pregnancy is exhausting and after all, you also want to find your routine with the first child first. The decisive factor can also be whether there is enough space for a second child.

If parents have decided to have a second child, they should wait until they feel they have their daily routine under control.