We asked MyKidsTime parents to tell us the one thing they miss most about life before kids. We thought sleep would win by a mile — and it’s certainly up there — but some of the other answers are just as relatable. Here’s what parents told us they miss most about life pre-baby.
“In all honesty, just being able to do what I want without having to consider someone else’s welfare above my own wants. Now in saying that, I wouldn’t change it for the world!” — Andrea C
“Sleep. And being able to go wherever, whenever without consideration to the children. That all said, I sure do love the little buggers! ❤️” — Ginger L
“The spontaneity of being able to go to the pub, restaurant or movie without having to organise babysitters — but like the others, wouldn’t change it for anything!” — Libby F
“Going out early in the evening, fiveish, and coming home around nine — simple things really. Oh, and sleeping, actually sleeping until eleven or twelve. Heaven.” — Maria F
“Just getting up and walking out the door without having to get someone else ready and fed and a bag packed etc 🙄” — Siobhan R
“Honestly, nothing. Being a mum is my greatest achievement and watching the four people I helped create grow is a great blessing, and I wouldn’t change a single thing.” — Lisa C
“Having something — anything — that’s my own and I don’t have to share.” — Shannon N
“Sleep and sex, but I love my little monster more than anything in this world.” — Amy D
“Quiet time… do boys ever shut up and stop moving unless they’re asleep!” — Tammy N
“Adults-only dinners. Can’t exactly go to a restaurant with my crazy kids.” — Rachel J
“Having a job and not worrying about the childcare and cost of it 😊” — Emma D
“Being able to go for a drink or the cinema or a coffee at the last minute…” — Ali O’C
“Sleeping and the ability to do whatever I want without having to worry about three other littles…” — Ashley F
“Waking up naturally without being woken up. Showers on my own.” — Lorna W
“Freedom to do what I wanted when I wanted — but I would never regret the kids, they are my heart and soul.” — Natasha H
“Nothing. I can’t even remember — I am so fulfilled with having my children!” — Robin D
“The only thing is sleep. Other than that, everything is perfect. In fact my body is probably better, lol.” — Alison H
“Lazy Sundays!” — Vicky B
“Lie-ins and a social life.” — Caroline T
“My figure, lol.” — Lola S
“Weekend benders 😅” — Nichola J
“Money 😂😂😂” — Joe P
“Me time!” — Joanne H
“A full night’s sleep…” — Eileen O’S
“Travel!” — Mags B
“Being able to afford holidays.” — Laura T
“Having all my money to myself.” — Tracey L
“Linen tablecloths!” — Jennifer H
What do you miss most?
Sleep, spontaneity, money, quiet, or just a coffee that starts and ends before it goes cold — whatever it is, you’re definitely not alone. Parenting brings a whole new kind of full, but it’s okay to laugh about what got left behind too. We’d love to hear what you miss most — feel free to share this with a fellow parent who’ll nod along to every single one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do parents miss most after having kids?
Based on what real parents told us, the most common answers are sleep, spontaneity (being able to go out or travel at short notice), personal time, and having money and a social life to themselves. Many also mention missing their pre-baby figure or simply quiet moments.
Is it normal to miss life before having children?
Yes, completely normal. Loving your children and missing aspects of your old life aren’t contradictory — as many of the parents above point out, they wouldn’t change having their kids for the world, even while missing a lie-in or a spontaneous night out.
Do these feelings go away over time?
For most parents, the practical things — like sleep and free time — do ease as children grow older and more independent. The feelings themselves are a normal part of adjusting to parenthood rather than a sign anything is wrong.
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- “A Mother’s Love” by Erma Bombeck Sums Up Motherhood Perfectly
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