Raising six children has taught me many valuable lessons. It's changed my perspective on parenting, housework, finances, and relationships for the better. Having a big family forced me to reevaluate my decisions, but you don't need to have a big family to live like one. Here are some large family perspectives that all families should consider, no matter what size.

On Time

Time is something we all want more of. The change in perspective here is that large families must use their time more wisely. If there is an hour for cleaning, get up and clean. If there is an hour for playing, make the most of it and enjoy your limited playtime with your children. If you have two hours to spend with your spouse, turn off the TV and talk. Put down your cell phone and ask the kids how school went. Rise early in the morning to spend some quiet time alone so you feel refreshed enough to take on the busy and full day ahead of you.

Benefits for all families: When time is used wisely, there is more time for the things you enjoy. 

On Disagreements

Large families have to learn to let go of what they cannot control. If you’re a mother of many, you know that bending over backwards to get your kindergartener and your toddlers to all wear coordinating T-shirts and matching socks isn’t a battle worth ruining your day — or even your hour. If the child is dressed appropriately for the weather, then the child is ready to go! This principle can be applied to any relationship, including your spouse. Let the small things go and work through the important things as a team. This practice will guarantee you more peace and fewer disagreements.

Benefit for all families: Learn not to sweat the small stuff, which helps create healthy relationships and less stress for everyone. 

On Differences

We all realize that each person has their own unique gifts, talents, opinions, quirks, and habits. Larger families learn to embrace differences and to see them as strengths because their own home is rich with diverse perspectives and personalities. Growing up in this environment creates an appreciation for our differences and teaches kids to be accepting. You don’t have to have a lot of kids to know that life is precious and children are a gift. In a large family, parents appreciate each child’s unique personality and have the opportunity to teach kids to love and respect each other.

Benefits for all families: People should be celebrated and accepted for what makes them unique.

Big family perspectives on fun, budgeting, and more on page 2...

On Fun

Many large families must stick to a tight budget. Activities like movies and other outings that cost a lot per person are often out of the questions. Large families learn to find the fun in things that are cheap or free, such as a picnic at the park, building a fort in the living room, movie night at home, a dance party, or learning to bake.

Benefits for all families: Quality family time and lasting memories can be created at little or no cost.

On Planning

When you are dealing with a large crowd, planning and organization are key to things running smoothly. As a large family mom, meal planning, a chore schedule, and a well-maintained calendar are necessary for our family to thrive. Planning does take time but the results create a less stressful environment for everyone.

Benefits for all families: Planning ahead creates less stress.

On Budgeting

Large families must work with a tight budget and cut costs in creative ways. There are many ways to do this, so you have to prioritize based on your families needs and values to make a budget that you can live with. Some ideas for trimming your budget include cooking from scratch, buying used clothes or other items instead of new, canceling your cable or other subscription services, or taking on household repair projects yourself.

Benefits for all families: Learn to spend wisely and save money. 

On Chores

Working as a team and sharing chores is a necessity for large families to maintain the house. Teamwork is a skill that is valued in school and in the workplace. Kids in large families learn to use teamwork to accomplish tasks and work with others in all situations. Kids also learn skills that they will be expected to have in adulthood.

Benefits for all families: When everyone pitches in, the work goes faster and children learn about responsibilities.

Large families often stumble upon these perspectives out of necessity, but you do not have to have a large family to benefit from them.