Influencer Paige Paul has drawn criticism from parents after expressing her belief that children, particularly from the fourth child onward, can "raise each other." Paul, who is married to professional tennis player Tommy Paul, shared this parenting perspective during a recent appearance on the "Not Skinny But Not Fat" podcast.
Paul, 28, also stated her intention to have "five or six" children with her husband. She attributed her family planning goals to her financial stability, noting, "I've had a really fortunate career where [I'll be] able to afford that many kids." She added that the ability to provide each child with the same opportunities is a significant factor.
When the podcast host, Amanda Hirsch, questioned how Paul would manage a large family, Paul responded with her "raise each other" theory. Hirsch disagreed, stating, "That's just something people say, it's not true." Paul, however, reiterated her stance, suggesting that while she doesn't think three children would "raise themselves," she believes "four [and up], I think, raise [themselves]."
The comments, shared as a clip on Instagram, quickly generated a strong reaction in the comment section. Many parents recounted their own experiences, pushing back against Paul's assertion. "As a mom of four under seven, I can confirm, THEY DO NOT RAISE THEMSELVES," one user wrote. Another echoed, "Mom of four. Can confirm they do not raise themselves." Some users offered advice based on their own large families, with one stating, "I am the eldest of five. Do not have more than three lol."
Other reactions included sarcastic remarks such as, "Oh geez! Give me a break," and "She’s living in La La Land." One commenter advised, "No one raises anyone else. Stop at two. You’re welcome."
Conversely, some commenters expressed support for Paul's optimism. "Aww I love the optimism [people] without kids bring to the conversation," one user wrote. Another defended her perspective, stating, "Nah don’t stomp on her dreams like that. Not everyone with a bunch of kids is miserable about it."
Paul's remarks follow her wedding to Tommy Paul, which took place recently on Long Island. The couple, who met four years prior, began their relationship after Tommy Paul initiated contact by liking her Instagram posts, leading Paige Paul to message him directly. They reportedly first met in person at the U.S. Open later that year.
Tommy Paul described the wedding as "the party of the decade" and expressed anticipation for the next chapter with his wife. Paige Paul elaborated on her wedding preparations in an interview with Vogue, detailing multiple dress fittings and extensive discussions with designer Wes Gordon of Carolina Herrera for her bridal gown. She also wore several other outfits throughout the wedding festivities.