Having skimmed your website several times, I now write to share my situation. Any thoughts anyone has would be welcomed!
Am now 31 year old Only Child myself, I had a comparatively privileged upbringing (a world of Private Schools, Ponies and all the toys you could every wish for plus a few!!) and always knew I was loved by my parents. My upbringing was not harsh or unhappy, although the rows were plentiful between both my parents themselves and them and myself, in fact I would say I had a great childhood with many happy memories. But I always longed for that sibling………….Anna
My response
Dear Anna
I have tried sending you a response but the email address you sent it from does not accept it. Thank you for your really interesting letter and sharing your dilemma. I felt by the end that you did have some clarity- Sam will be ok as an only child! The main thing is that he has plenty of friends to interact with, in his home and in theirs. This I believe is the most crucial thing: having close peer relationships where he can learn how to deal with conflict, competition, envy etc- all the psychological things parents, however good, can never provide. Your wish for a sibling is identical in nature to so many letters I receive from people who would love to be an only child! It’s based on fantasy of not having a sibling!- rather than the reality which might be great but often isn't! Hope this helps. I would like your permssion to place all the email on the website.
Best wishes , Bernice