There’s never a shortage of voices out there urging you to take the plunge into parenthood. And while I absolutely believe you can carve a fulfilling life without kids, having my own has truly enriched my journey in ways I never anticipated. Recently, on a Parenting board on Reddit, someone asked about the unexpected benefits of having children, prompting an outpouring of heartwarming and often humorous responses that may resonate deeply with many parents.
One user, u/Unable_Researcher_26, captured a delightful moment: “We all know the main perk of having kids is that you can enjoy places like zoos and trampoline parks without seeming out of place. But just the other day, someone complimented my dress while I was out with my daughter. I shyly thanked them, and to my surprise, my daughter chirped, ‘She made it!’ It’s a sweet new perk of parenthood—having a built-in cheerleader to voice your accomplishments, especially when you feel too shy to do it yourself.”
When she opened the floor for more unexpected benefits, the responses were filled with a mix of laughter, sentimentality, and relatable truths. Here are some of the recurring themes that stood out to me and, I think, will resonate with many.
The “Unfortunate” Cancellations
This one came up repeatedly, and for good reason—it holds a cheeky truth that parents can relate to. There’s a unique freedom in being able to dodge social commitments with a creative excuse derived from parenting. As adults, we all value our relationships, but sometimes the relief of saying, “Oh no, my little one naps then!”—even if your child hasn’t napped in years—can feel like a small victory. Sure, it’s vital to strike a balance and not overuse this excuse, but if you’re ever stuck in a boring conversation, you might be grateful to lean into your parental duties as your escape route!
Reconnecting with Your Inner Child
One commenter beautifully articulated, “I’ve found one unexpected benefit is that I can be a kid again without the sideways glances. Dancing and being goofy with my kids in public is not just accepted—it’s celebrated. What people don’t realize is that I’m this silly at heart, and before kids, I often felt I had to suppress it.”
There’s a special kind of magic in viewing the world through your child’s curious eyes. Each holiday becomes a festive adventure, every silly song a joyful memory etched in time.
Snuggles Galore
Who doesn’t cherish those sweet moments of affection? While we’re not about to force hugs on our kiddos, often they’re more than willing to shower us with snuggles. One parent recounted, “I chase my three-year-old with my arms wide open, yelling, ‘Let me love you!’ The giggles I get in return? Priceless.”
Another parent shared that even their older kids, aged 16 and 18, still don’t shy away from this playful affection. As a mom to an 11 and 13-year-old, I can confirm that the joy of those moments never really fades.
The Perks of Always Being Prepared
This skill begins from the moment you welcome a tiny human into the world. It starts with diapers, wipes, and snacks, but it quickly evolves into a parental sixth sense. Even now, with my kids in double digits, I keep a stash of baby wipes in my car. You’d be surprised how handy they are! Just recently, on a trip with friends, I became the go-to person when anyone needed essentials—bandaids, sunscreen, or even an extra charger. Parenthood teaches you that being unprepared can lead to chaos, so you learn to be that reliable person.
Built-In Wingmen
Socializing as a parent comes with its unique advantages. One parent remarked, “Having a child simplifies meeting new people. I’ve found it much easier to connect with other parents than when I was navigating the single life.” How true that is! Playdates, school events, and playgrounds become the backdrop for forging new friendships, and your little one can help break the ice in ways that might feel intimidating otherwise.
Ultimately, no matter how much they grow, their magic remains. Embracing the spontaneous adventures, the laughter-filled moments, and those unexpected joys can deeply enrich the experience of parenting. Your children may surprise you in small, delightful ways each day, making every ounce of effort worth it. So as we revel in the messy chaos of parenthood, let’s also celebrate its abundance of unexpected perks.
Image Source: Unsplash
