Are there certain years parenting is easier?

*Carrie*

So we have a 2 year old and one on the way.  The 2 year old has required insane attention since she was born so I'm wondering if/when the independent years-yet not too stressful years hit.

 

Yeah I know I don't know it all but I'm not complaining, I'm just curious when the insane attention years might chill a little.  5 meals a day, 6 diapers a day, 100 puzzles, 50 books, 10 pretend to be the baby, 2 walks...ya know.  I am sure I sound silly since I can look at an 8 year old and know they are easier but I'm wondering in general what ranges are the tough years... ya know? 

 

I think I'm having a freak out moment with #2 on the way hoping #1 will get a wee bit more self sufficient someday... 

KrisBriMcBunny

18 months to about 4 or 5 yrs old and then from 12yr old to when they leave the house to go to college.

shouldbeworkin

I feel like my kids do rotate between easy stages and tough stages.  It's been different for both of my kids, too.  DS was tougher as an infant, but a much easier toddler.  DD was an easy baby, but is giving me a run for my money at 2.  DS was a handful from 3 to 4, but is pretty good now.  It's hard with two b/c I feel like I really get no break between the easy/tough stages.  One is always going through something.  It's a good thing they're so cute!  ;-)

LeisureSuitLauren

I don't think so, at least not so far.  It's just one stage after another. I guess easier in some ways, but it's seems a trade-off with something more challenging.

calico77

It has seemed lately that we have more time with DS not always needing something...he is 2.5....will be 3 in Jan.  I have no clue why I waited till now to have another baby since that will all be screwed up in 7 months.  DH and I were on the couch looking at something on the laptop and DS was playing with train table and keeping himself occupied (without asking) and it was nice!