@thegeneralist: yep, I know it’s a bit of a generalisation but the point I’m illustrating is that IMO non-parents (most or indeed all?) can’t possibly know what it’s like to be a parent.
Put aside arguments such as “I’m 25y years old and have had to look after my younger brother for 15 years because dad walked out and mum is too unwell to look after us …” or “All my friends have kids so I know what it’s like” or “I babysit evey Fri night for my mate down the road” etc.
The bond between parent and child is unlike anything else I know of. Hence I can’t see how that can be mimicked in any way. Sure, there’s the “everyday” stuff that most people can chew over. And I’ve nothing against anyone who doesn’t want kids – unless they believe kids are worthless/a pain/too much hassle etc.
I’m just saying that to know what it’s like to be a parent kind of requires speaking to parents.