Raising a baby is hard work. Raising two children can be a lot harder, especially if they are close in age.
Imagine trying to bathe an active 2 year-old while your newborn is crying. Imagine how your 2-year-old will complain when you can’t give her the time you do now. You know how your baby can demand your attention whenever you want to talk on the phone. Imagine how the older one will feel when you have to ignore her to care for the new baby. And how will you feel? Happy, we hope — but also worn out! That is why experts give this advice: If you want to have another baby, don’t do it too soon. Wait a while, at least until your baby is two or older. Research shows that siblings get along better when they are not too close in age. There are many safe ways to prevent pregnancy. Talk with your doctor, clinic or spiritual adviser before deciding what to do. You can also look under “Family Planning” in the yellow pages of your telephone book. Planning your family takes effort on your part. But it can make life easier for you, and it can help you be a better parent.
http://cop.extension.org/wiki/Mom_and_Dad 3/13/2007
