A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I have three kids" in Spanish
Learn how to say you have three children in Spanish with this simple, natural phrase perfect for introductions and small talk.
Tengo tres hijos.
TEN-go tres EE-hosneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when someone asks about your family or during casual get-to-know-you conversations. It works perfectly when meeting new neighbors, chatting with coworkers, or talking to parents at school.
Alternatives
- Tengo tres niños.Use this if you want to emphasize that they are young children.
- Soy padre de tres.Use this for a slightly more formal or descriptive tone.
- Tengo tres hijos varones.Use this specifically to clarify that all three are boys.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't use 'estoy'
Always use 'tengo' (I have) for age or family count, never 'estoy' (I am).
Pronouncing the 'h'
The 'h' in 'hijos' is silent; make sure to start the word with the 'ee' sound.
A small cultural note
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, family is a primary topic of conversation, so sharing this information is a great way to build rapport quickly.
Frequently asked
How do I say I have three daughters instead of sons?
You should say 'Tengo tres hijas.' Changing the 'o' to an 'a' specifies that they are female.
Does hijos only mean sons?
No, 'hijos' is the gender-neutral plural for children. It refers to a mix of boys and girls or just boys.
Can I use this phrase in a job interview?
While it is grammatically correct, family status is usually not discussed in professional settings in many regions. It is better to stick to this in social contexts.
