Clockwise from left: Tanya's children (10), Susan's boys (7, with one on the way), and Leanne's children (7).
With seven, eight and 10 children under their respective wings, Essential Baby members Leanne, Susan and Tanya offer an insight into their large families.
Susan’s family
How many children do you have?
We have seven sons and are expecting the arrival of our eighth son in December! The boys are aged 15, 14, 11, 10, 6, 4 and 2-years-old.
What’s the best thing about being a large family?
There’s always company around and there is always, always something to do. I don’t think I can remember the last time I heard, "I'm bored Mum".
What is the hardest or most challenging thing about being a large family?
The overload of folding. I usually do about three large loads of washing a day but finding the time to get it all put away is often a challenge.
How do you handle the routines?
We are very flexible with our routines. You have a basic framework but you have to be prepared for that to go off track if something happen and it does.
How do people respond?
I often have people comment that they can’t believe I am still sane! Very much so - I just take it in my stride.
Leanne’s family
How many children do you have?
One girl, six boys: Courtney 20, Rhyan 19, Jarryd 16, Elliott and Harrison 13, Grayson 7, Sebastian 4.
What’s the best thing about being a large family?
The organised choas we live in! The cuddles and of course when it is my birthday and Mothers' Day! Nothing compares to seven lots of arms wrapped around you, saying 'I love you mum'.
What is the hardest or most challenging thing about being a large family?
The washing and house work… It is never ending!
How do you handle the routines?
We have a fairly good routine. I write everything on a very big calender. Both my husband and I work so we need to be fairly organised.
Most common statement from people about your family size - and your comeback!
'OMG you have seven children!' I usually say to them and how many do you have? When they say two I say "what you only have 2 children!". Or they say, "Gee you have your hands full". I say, "I'd rather have them full then empty".
Anything else you'd like to add?
Our life is very busy and sometimes crazy but I love it. I would not have it any other way. As the children are growing and getting older things change but one thing is for sure - if I ever had my life again I would do it all over again! I feel very special to be blessed with a large family.
Tanya's family
How many children do you have?
10! Rachael (17), Stephanie (16), Sheree (14), Alisha and Natasha (12), Katelynn (10), Kassandra (8), Brayden (4), Caleb (21 months), Joshia (2 weeks)
What’s the best thing about being a large family?
The best thing about having a large family would be, there is always someone the kids can play with. Its never lonely. Just having so many kids is a wonderful feeling, and such a blessing. You just can't pick just one thing - there is so many things that make it great!
What is the hardest or most challenging thing about being a large family?
The hardest part of having a large family would have to be the fights! There's never a dull moment! There are always fights over who has my stuff. Who went in my room. Or I want that! Or I got that first! Especially when you have seven of the same sex in a row!
How do you handle the routines?
Our routine for chores are usually pretty good. The kids are assigned to their section of the house where they have to clean. Some days it does get tough. Especially when one of them doesn't feel like cleaning but they usually come around - if I'm persistent - which I am! I also have rewards that they look forward too as well. With somethings I don't have a routine, I just go with the flow. But everyone does their bit!
What is the most common question you get asked?
The thing I get asked the most... are you going to have anymore? I would then say it's up to God! If he wants to give me more then so be it! Then they usually have nothing to say but just agree.
Anything else?
I have never found out the sex for any of the kids. I just feel blessed to have 10 healthy kids. I couldn't ask for anything more! I have also breastfed all of my kids, and I think I'm very fortunate to be able too. And to have so many wonderful pregnancies!
