Expert says having three kids is the most stressful number for mum

With new research showing the trickiest number of children for parents, an expert says the answer to being less stressed might be opposite to what you may think.

MUMS of three are more stressed than those with a houseful of kids.

Australian parenting expert Pinky McKay believes when a fourth child is added to a family, the battle for perfection is dropped and parents cave in to a more laid-back “every man for himself” way of life.

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Ms McKay is a mother of five but supports research that shows having three children is the most tricky number.

“When number four arrived, it seemed like I had been pushed past a limit and understood that it was time to chill and turn a blind eye to some of the mess and noise,” she said.

Nikki and Eddy Tillotson with their three sons Caysn, 3, Kail, 7, and Brody, 3, at New Farm Park. Picture: Tara Croser

Each child added after four joins an environment of teamwork and independence and parents grow in confidence.

“With two children you can stay fairly well in control,” Ms McKaysaid.

“Getting three or more kids out the door can be harder than two, and usually there is a school-aged kid by the time there are three.”

Nikki and Eddy Tillotson, who have three boys under seven, including twins, believe stress is influenced by the age gap between children.