Mom Makes the Case That Baby No. 3 Might Just Be the Best Yet

There are few certainties in parenting, but one thing’s almost always true: every baby is different. Just because your first child cried all night doesn’t mean your second won’t sleep soundly. A picky eater the second time around doesn’t necessarily mean your first wasn’t a little foodie. With all these differences, one mom is making the case that baby number three might just be the easiest of all.

In a now-viral TikTok with over 1 million views, mom of three Erin (@erinward_) shares why her third baby has been a breeze. “Having a third kid is like buying a doll or a puppy,” she says, as her newborn lies peacefully beside her. “There’s just so much novelty.”

Erin explains that not only is her third child an angel, but she also feels more relaxed as a parent. “[The] first is like a nightmare. You’ve got no idea what you’re doing. You’re Googling everything. You’re so nervous. You’re overanalyzing everything. [With the] second you’re like, ‘what the f–k is this s–t show?’ You’re trying to balance two kids and it’s just like…” she sighs, before refocusing on her new little one. “Look at him! It’s just like a little doll that you had for s–ts and gigs,” she continues. “There’s just so much novelty.”

In the comments, parents chimed in, some tempted to try for a third and others sharing their own experiences. “This feels like a trap… but fine, I’ll give it a go,” joked one parent. Another shared, “I’ve just had my 5th, and he’s like a handbag. I just cart him around and he’s so good and chill and no one is stressed.” Another mom added, “Literally had my third 6 days ago and all he does is eat and sleep. I don’t know what to do with my spare hands,” while someone else noted, “My third is the chillest, sweetest guy. He’s so calm. It’s nice having a 3rd go at it fully equipped.”

However, not everyone had the same experience. “My third was a doll alright. A Chucky doll,” quipped one commenter. “Wait until they become toddlers. My 3rd child is my wild child. Newborn/baby stage was easy,” added another.

Whether or not every third child is as easygoing as Erin’s, her perspective offers a refreshing reminder to embrace each unique stage of parenting.