Life for Jeni and Ray Bonell, who are raising 16 children in Australia, is far from ordinary. From handling the logistics of daily life to feeding their large family, the Bonells have found ways to turn the chaos into a well-managed routine — all while keeping a sense of humor.
Managing a Family of 16
Coordinating daily life for a family of this size is no small feat. The Bonells have mastered the art of organizing their home, and they’ve created a smooth routine that helps them keep everything running efficiently. While getting a perfect family photo may be a challenge, Jeni and Ray embrace the chaos that comes with their full house.
Meal Planning on a Budget
Feeding 16 children each day requires careful planning and budgeting. On average, the Bonell family spends around $600 a week on groceries, a cost they manage by making smart sacrifices and sticking to a well-organized shopping list. Dinner time is an important part of the day, often involving a crowd of 20 or more people. “Dinner is always great,” Jeni shares, emphasizing that no matter how hectic the day is, mealtime is always a chance for the family to come together.
Despite the financial pressures, the Bonells manage to stay financially independent. “We don’t live off the taxpayer,” Jeni notes, “but we do make sacrifices in other areas to make it all work.”
A System That Works
With 16 kids to look after, organization is crucial. The Bonells have created a system to ensure that everyone contributes and helps around the house. As each child turns eight, they are added to the family roster, rotating through chores like sweeping, mopping, and meal prep. “We have a roster system, so each kid knows their responsibilities,” says Jeni. “Everyone pitches in.”
In addition to the daily chores, Jeni often shares tips and recipes for quick, easy meals and snacks on her YouTube channel. Popular snacks like air fryer egg cups and air fryer pizza bites are favorites for the family. They’re easy to prepare, freeze well, and are perfect for busy school mornings.
Love, Teamwork, and Humor
Despite the challenges of managing a household of 18 people, the Bonells keep things running smoothly with a foundation of love, teamwork, and humor. Jeni and Ray’s ability to adapt to the demands of raising 16 kids is a testament to their strong bond and commitment to their family. While life is undoubtedly hectic, the Bonells prove that with the right systems and mindset, even the most chaotic household can thrive.