But WHY Do People Have Babies? Your Friend With Kids Explains

Yes, little Joshie, to the untrained eye, it may look like young parents are missing out on all that young, spirited fun you described.

To those looking in from the outside, you may be scratching your heads wondering why anyone would make such a choice. You pity us every time you see our tired eyes, disheveled appearance, or hear us yelling things like “Stop picking your nose!” or “Don’t lick people! You’re not a dog!”

Sure, our luxurious travels get put on hold, we don’t make it out most weekends, and we’re usually in our pajamas by 9 P.M. We spend our Sunday Fundays at the playground, shadowing our little ones as they brave the big slides, trying to capture every accomplishment on camera. Does it really seem so bad?

And let’s be honest, who even likes hanging out at bars until closing? You spend a fortune, get too tipsy, and think the person you made out with is way hotter than they are. And now that every moment is caught on camera and tweeted, ‘Grammed, or Snapped to the world, anonymous make outs at the bar don’t seem so appealing or so anonymous.

I agree that there is too much pressure to procreate these days. For those like myself that waited a bit longer because we had too many adventures planned, the whole getting pregnant process took more time and assistance than anticipated. It puts a lot of pressure on both the individuals and the relationship as a whole. So take my advice, if your friends aren’t talking about it, don’t ask!

But once that little bambino arrives, you start a new adventure, unlocking the amazing benefits of being a parent.

Unfortunately, the biggest misconception is that you have to grow up to be a parent. In reality, you have a completely legitimate excuse to act like a child at all times. You can dance whenever your favorite jam comes on and not be questioned as crazy, because you’re entertaining your child. Want to go see that new kids movie? Just let the little one tag along. Amusement parks, water parks, rides on the boardwalk? Check, check, and check! You have a free pass to do all that fun stuff again.

But it doesn’t stop there. Let’s not forget the frequent trips to the candy store and ice cream shop. What a coincidence! Little guy loves Swedish Fish and butter almond ice cream, just like mommy! Even standard errands and travel become easier. Stuck with a ton of bags at the mall? Strollers provide excellent storage! Flying Southwest and forgot to check in? People with kids get to pre-board and take the best seats!

Want to check out that new restaurant that no one can get a reservation at? No problem—the 5 P.M. slot is always open, and that’s your normal dinner time anyway. Looking to get in a serious uninterrupted workout? You’ll have the gym to yourself on Saturday because you’ll be there before your childless friends even know it’s the weekend. Looking to not work out at all? Kids are the perfect excuse!

Now, don’t roll your eyes. I know having a child is a lot of responsibility and a lot of work. At the end of the day, it’s amazing to look at that little person, knowing he’s made from you and your partner. Look at it as passing along pieces of yourself: the adventure, mischief, and humor that you supposedly “lost” by becoming a parent.

So to answer your questions, Joshie, people have babies because it’s one of life’s biggest adventures. It allows you to see the world through new eyes, relive your youth, and take on your best traits. Having babies, by definition, creates a new life of its own.

Are you in it for the kids over here with #TeamMelissa, or are you still chasing your golden days with #TeamJosh? The debate continues on The Prompt’s Facebook and Twitter. We want to hear from you!