It's Raining, It's Pouring *

It's official now, something we have been sensing for a while. It's raining babies, and more specifically, the 2nd ones. 

Don't get me wrong, having babies is great, we have two children of our own. One may have as many babies as one wishes, anything from 0 and upward is cool, although it is best if you stop at 2... warna 'Yogi' aa jayenga. What I am alluding to is the sudden realisation for many couples who had stopped at one child to have the second child. The data is quite stark. Couples I know, who had their first child anytime between 2010 and 2019 are suddenly in the queue for their second. 

There are many possible reasons for this. 

Firstly, it could be just coincidence. At our age, most people we know have had their first child a few years ago and it may just be the right gap as per them. However, the numbers and the diversity in gaps is definitely noteworthy. Also, the number of 2nd children in the pipeline for couples who had earlier 'declared their innings' is quite stark.

Second is the most common reason for everything nowadays, 'The Lockdown'. Lockdown has made people realise the value of family. Shabnam tells me examples of long steady couples getting hitched, I have known people change organisations to go closer home. Logically, couples who may have delayed or stopped planning another child for career reasons are re-evaluating their priorities.

The third is a bit more nuanced subset of the second. I know of many examples of couples with a single child struggle through the lockdown to keep them entertained. All this while, us 2 children couples spoke of how the kids kept each other engaged and occupied. I think the single child couples have finally given in and decided to prepare for the next lockdown. 

TLDR: Many couples having second child recently could be a coincidence or one more side effect of the lockdown. 

Whatever the reason, I wish all couples on the parenting journey all the very best. Just remember, when it comes to kids, 1+1=11!

* This article is written in jest. I don't mean to belittle the pandemic or it's struggles or trivialise the enormous decision of having a child. If anyone is offended, my sincere apologies.