Lucie, a 36-year-old teacher with three children, noticed that having a larger family is not the norm in society. When dining out with her family of five, she often sees puzzled looks from others in the restaurant. However, the reactions she receives are not necessarily negative, but instead a mix of surprise and admiration. Lucie and her partner made the decision to have a third child after moving from their Paris apartment to Southern France to be closer to family, buy a house, and have job stability. These factors were crucial in their decision to expand their family.
According to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee), in 2020, families with two children were the most common (42.4%), followed by families with only one child (36.2%). Large families, with three children being the most prevalent (15.7%), made up one-fifth of all families. The government also provides additional support for families with three or more children, including extended maternity leave, additional tax benefits, and doubled family allowances. However, the financial burden of raising a larger family can also increase with each additional child.
With the declining birth rate in France, President Emmanuel Macron announced measures to encourage population growth. This raises the question of what motivates families to deviate from or adhere to the standard family model. Making the decision to have a third child is seen as a significant life choice. Do families consider the same factors when deciding to have a third child as they did for their first two children? The decision is deeply personal and can be influenced by financial, emotional, and societal factors.
As families navigate the decision to have more children, they weigh the potential benefits and challenges that come with each additional family member. For some, having a larger family is a source of fulfillment and joy, while others may struggle with the practical and financial implications. The idea of a third child as a “bonus” to the family dynamic provokes questions of whether it is a logical decision or simply a desire for more children. Ultimately, the decision to have a third child is a reflection of each family’s unique circumstances and values.
The narrative of larger families challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding family size. Despite the stereotypes and preconceived notions, families like Lucie’s find joy and fulfillment in having multiple children. As the government aims to boost population growth, families are faced with the decision of whether to have a third child and the considerations that come with it. Whether they choose to have a third child or not, each family’s decision is a reflection of their individual circumstances and values.
