Having only female children can have social, emotional, and economic implications for families and individuals, especially in societies where there are gender biases and preference for male heirs. How do parents and families cope with the challenges that come with having only female children? We asked Mr Joseph Idachaba, a retired Electrical Engineer about his experience having children who are all daughters.
How many kids do you have and how old are they?
I have four daughters. The eldest is 33, while the others are 28, 25 and 21.
How do you feel having only female children?
Having female children is great. I give all glory to God.
How close are you to all your daughters and how do you relate with them?
I am very close to them. Our relationship goes beyond father and daughter. For example, the way my youngest daughter converses with me, one would think we are of the same generation.
How does society respond to the fact that you have only female children?
See, let me tell you, gone are the days when society placed premium value on male children. To me, my daughters are equal to any male child out there. Although, those days when I was still active in service, my colleagues referred to me as ‘the man with girls hostel’.
Do you and your spouse at any time wish you had a son?
I was never bothered about having male children. It was usually my wife who was a bit bothered. I can recall her making prediction about having a male child when she was pregnant with our second and third child. However, they both came out to be female.
Do your daughters wish they had a brother?
No, I am highly grateful to God for my girls. Did you know that female children care more for their aged parents than male children?
Any issue of sibling rivalry between your daughters?
They demonstrated some level of rivalry when they were young, but as they grew up, I did not notice any of such.
How did you raise them and what values did you instill in them?
I raised my girls with the fear of God and principles. They understand that I am a man of principles, so they respect my boundaries. I have instilled in them discipline and fear of God.
What message do you have for parents with only female children?
If you have all female children like me, please give glory to God. Frankly speaking, female children are wonderful and fun to be with. With female children, one will always have a reason to smile and be happy.