The statement that raising kids is the most difficult job in the world isn't just empty words. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, the majority of parents (62%) say that it has been at least somewhat harder than they expected, with about a quarter (26%) saying it's been a lot harder.
Part of the reason for this might be that people often highlight the joyful and fulfilling moments with their children while glossing over the relentless challenges and sacrifices they make day in and day out. So when one Redditor asked everyone else on the platform to share the harsh realities of having kids, they received plenty of eye-opening replies.
#21
There is no one single way to parent that is universally right. All children are individuals and even within the same family each requires their own approach to everything.
Also for future parents prepare yourself to feel Constant doubt about every decision and action you take with your kids forever. .
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24points
#22
If you truly care about your kids, the feeling of guilt is a daily experience.
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23points
#23
How much they cost! I don’t have kids, but most of my friends do, and all I hear about is how they’re always broke because little Johnny did this and tiny Sarah ate a bee and that’s how they found out she’s allergic.. and I’m over here like, nah, I’ll just have a cat.
23points
#24
That little kids get sick often as they are building up their immunity systems especially if they go to childcare or preschool. If your child is sick you have to stay home with them and miss work.
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23points
#25
Your own flaws show up and you need to show at least a way to fix them. And school starts at eight. So the alarm goes at 5:55 ….
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22points
#26
Want to do something quickly? you can't. you now have another human to care for/think about for a very long time, even after they turn 18.
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21points
#27
There is a short person that insists on holding my hand when I use the toilet.
Nobody explained the absolute lack of privacy you'll have.
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21points
#28
You are not their friend growing up. You are there to guide, curb and direct to make good choices on their own, have a compassionate backbone. These choices have to be age, intellectual, and emotionally appropriate. You are more experienced than your children but your perceptions of reality as a adult may be inappropriate based on their maturity. Be cautious of overburdening them with your vices or personal baggage.
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18points
#29
Realizing that a “vacation” is now just listening to your kids fight, having to buy expensive food they won’t eat, and not sleeping for a couple of weeks a year.
There are moments when you feel like they’re enjoying things and building core memories, allowing you to feel the joy of having those experiences with them.
But in the end you’re just doing the same child care in a more expensive place
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18points
#30
Being a parent is like being an NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer)
Your job: Teach, mentor, and train.
Your goal: Make them better than you at everything so they can be better for their turn.
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14points
