katie

My husband and I had our first child when we were barely into our 20's. We really didn't plan on any more kids, we were happy with our son. Then, nine years later, our first daughter was born. It was like starting all over again. On top of that, three years later, we had another girl. We love all of our kids but I would really recommend having kids closer together!

LilSisShelly

I read a study that suggested that more than five years between them and the kids have so little in common that they are essential like an only child. So its as tough on them as it is on you!

PurpleFDU

My sister-in-laws kids are all 5 years apart and I can't say I get it. I figure 2-3 is about perfect, but she's going to be going nuts in a couple years with a toddler, high schooler and elementary aged child.

LilSisShelly

Right that's the problem. It is considered that to share in the sibling experience that children need to be in the same schools at the same time for instance, and be able to be on the same sports teams.

Lucie_NY

I completely agree. My brother is 5yrs younger and my sister is 16yrs younger (don't ask) and I was never really like a sister to either of them I was more like a mom to my sister lol. My husband's sister is 3 yrs younger and they were always really close because they were brought up by nannies so he was always really protective of her. I think it made them closer because he was obviously more street-wise and looked out for her especailly when she was a Freshman. Plus they had loads in common because there wasn't the same gap of likes and dislikes.