Greg Taylor SVP, Performance Marketing and Media Buying | realtors.com
A mother of four, who is expecting her fifth child, has drawn attention online after sharing how her family manages to live in a one-bedroom apartment. Stephanie Jenkins, known as Resilient Jenkins on TikTok, has been documenting their living situation through daily vlogs. In these videos, she shares the challenges and strategies involved in raising four children in such limited space.
Jenkins and her husband occupy the sole bedroom while their children sleep in the main living area. The room serves as both a bedroom at night and a family space during the day. “We’re a family of six going on seven living in a one-bedroom apartment,” she stated in one video. She emphasized the need for constant adaptation to provide privacy and space for their growing children.
To create more room, Jenkins recently removed their dining table, highlighting that a "bedroom" becomes more important than a dining room when space is limited. The children sleep on mattresses or cots that are put away during the day to maximize available space.
Despite their efforts, Jenkins has faced significant criticism online. Some TikTok users have accused her of poor parenting choices due to their cramped living conditions. Comments questioned why they continue expanding their family without adequate space or finances. One user wrote: “I don’t even know how this is legal.” Others suggested rearranging the sleeping arrangements by giving the main bedroom to the children.
In response to critics, Jenkins expressed gratitude for having any shelter at all and pointed out that judgment often comes from those who lack similar experiences. She maintains an organized and clean environment despite appearances suggesting otherwise.
Jenkins also shared insights into her family's routine activities aimed at fostering growth and development among her children: “Tonight was a good night! Me and the kids worked on manifestation and character-building skills.”
The debate surrounding Jenkins' situation continues to spark discussions about housing conditions and parenting choices within small spaces.