If in the past a family could have 10 children or even more, now it is not uncommon for couples to only have one child or an only child.
Currently having an only child can be considered as a normal thing. Many couples choose to raise an only child, due to economic factors, rising cost of living, and infertility.
Pros and Cons of Having Only Children
One study revealed that about half of only children are more likely to be overweight. However, it all depends on how parents take care of their children. If they provide children with balanced nutritious food, and adopt a healthy lifestyle, then children will not be obese.
However, if parents are obese, it is likely that their children, single or not, will be at high risk of obesity. Apart from possible genetic factors, this is also influenced by eating habits in the house.
Some psychologists prefer to have more than one child, if it is still considered capable. This relates to problems in the psychology of an only child. Many believe that closeness between siblings in childhood can affect children's socio-emotional understanding, cognitive abilities, and psychological development. It is not owned by an only child.
However, for those of you who are destined to have an only child, there is no need to be discouraged. There are still many ways for the development of an only child to remain optimal, even if they do not have siblings. By applying how to educate children to eat healthy and set an example for children.
Tips for Raising an Only Child
For those of you who only have an only child, you can apply the following tips so that your child's development remains optimal even without siblings:
- Invite children to socialize with their friends. You can invite your little one's cousins and friends to play at home. Let him interact with many people from an early age to have social skills.
- Free your little one to do all the positive things on their own so that their creativity and independence can develop.
- Don't force your child to do something they don't want. Do not also impose your will, such as asking him to take various lessons.
- Involve children in conversations or discussions, to enrich their vocabulary and knowledge.
- Get your little one involved in activities outside the home. Besides being able to socialize with many people, he can also find any activities that interest him.
- Invite your little one to share, help each other, or be a volunteer, so that the empathy in him can grow.
Every child is unique and different, whether it's an only child or a child with many siblings. What is important is the guidance and direction of parents in educating and teaching children to be able to understand their role, both in the family and in society. If necessary, take advantage of child psychology consulting services to get recommendations on how to educate and raise the right only child.
