Q: Our three-year old-son is the centre of our world and my husband and I adore him. However, some of my parenting friends are saying that he needs a sibling and we're being unfair not to give this to him. But my husband and I only ever planned one child and are very happy as we are. But are we wrong?

A: The comments of other people can be incredibly unkind and unfair, and you should do your best to rise above this and ignore what people are saying to you. If your son, husband and you make a happy family of three, this is certainly the best start in life he could wish for.

It is not a crime to want one happy child and, additionally, there is absolutely no point bringing a child into this world if you don't believe he or she would enrich your lives - having a child for the sake of it is not a recipe for success and is not fair on anyone. So perhaps you should explain to your friends that you are all very happy as you are and plan to stay that way!


Furthermore, if your son has lots of friends and gets out and about to plenty of groups,events and parties, there is no reason to worry about a lack of a sibling affecting him negatively in the future.

However do bear in mind that, in years to come, he may well ask if he could have a brother or sister as children often say things like this - even if they end up fighting like cat and dog! So you may need to find a good way of explaining that Mummy and Daddy have chosen to have one very special baby, and that he is everything you want and need.

Additionally, make sure you continue to get out and about with your son, so that he has plenty of opportunity to play with his peers, socialise and master the art of sharing.

In the meantime, carry on as you are and ignore anyone who tries to tell you that you are irresponsible and being unfair on your son. Smile sweetly - and tell them to mind their own business!

Do you think children need siblings?