LIFE

Sure there are some downsides to growing up in a large family: name mix-ups, hand-me-downs, no alone time. But for every downside, there are a million *great* reasons to be surrounded by so many sibs and cousins.

You’re never bored. Literally. It’s just not possible. With all of your numerous older and younger siblings running around, you can always count on someone to be there to hang out with or to talk to.

You learn very important life lessons. There’s one thing in particular that you learn immediately when you’re a part of a big family, and that is the art of sharing. Whether it’s clothes, cars, food or your room, you’ve done it. And you know you’ll have to do it again in the future. Knowing how to share, be patient and listen are things some adults still struggle with. But chances are you’ve already learned how to navigate those waters.

You get group discounts. Most people are aware of this when it comes to field trips or birthday parties, but this happens to be a part of your everyday life. You get to go to really awesome places because of how many of you there are.

Your social skills are on point! Studies have shown that kids who grew up in a larger family tend to be better at getting with others. This can do wonders for making friends at school, or interviewing for your first job. So thank your little brother for annoying the heck out of you with constant talking, because it seems like it might have actually helped you in the end.

You’re an A plus problem solver. More people may mean less boredom, but it can also mean more arguing. You've had to referee more situations between your sibs than you can even remember. And while they weren’t fun in the moment, they definitely taught you a thing or too.

You’re able to perform tasks quickly and efficiently. Showering, eating, dressing...you’ve got it all down pat. Because if you want to take a shower before school while there was still hot water then you had to learn how to manage your time.

Your holidays are way more festive. From your immediate fam to your grandparents to your cousins and aunts and uncles and second cousins (the list goes on!), the holidays are *so* crazy, in the best way possible. With more people, there are always more games to play and more people to hang out with. The more, the merrier.

You might be healthier, too. Studies have shown that children growing up in large families have a lower susceptibility to icky illnesses like hay fever, eczema and food allergies and have a smaller chance of having depression.

Do you have a big fam? Let us know what it's like in the comments! 

Photo credit: Squarespace.

by Kaila L. | 2/14/2017