I'm not a parent yet but I think I know a lot about raising kids. I've spent a good part of my life caring for younger siblings and babysitting, most times I'm the one to make the meals, tidy up, watch over them while they nap, and gently guide them when they cry or misbehave. So with this experience I know parenting is not an easy job, however I've come to realize that minimalism makes parenting easier and calmer.
I know parents who prioritize giving their children care and attention over materialism.
Also from my experience growing up I think my mom practiced accidental minimalism, we didn't have a lot of stuffs, but she made sure that we had what we truly needed. And it helped us a lot, it shaped us in a way to value even the little things in life, and to be content with what we have.
Also the kids who their parents prioritize fewer materialism and focus on their child's needs always end up with a respectful and appreciative kids as I've noticed.
I know this because I've helped both rich and modest means people to babysit and the experience has taught me good lessons, the children of most rich people do not value other people who have less than what they have, and they're always in competition with others and have no regard for people and properties.
On the other hand kids who were made to understand values are always appreciative of the small things they have and they're happier, and they respect others.
People think that having a lot of toys or clothes is a sign that a child is well care for, but in reality it's different. The fewer the child has, the better he behaves IMO. Because when the space is cluttered, say with lots of toys, they become overwhelmed faster, they won't even know which one to play with. But when was a few favorites, a few blocks, crayons, and maybe a stuffed animal, the play would become more meaningful, creative, and quiet most times.
Minimalism also made it easier to breathe. Fewer items meant less organizing, less cleaning and more time to sit down and actually connect the kids, whether it was helping with their homework and playing silly with them hehe.
Yes kids are fun, and they make you proud when you bring them up right. Prioritize teaching them values than buying them expensive stuffs, because just as money gets into an adults head, it also does so with kids.
I do not have my own children now but I've learned from experience that kids don't need everything, they just need enough, and a lot of love and care. So if I ever become a parent I'll make sure to carry the lesson with me and give my children peace not a lot of things.
