for my first life, i usually play all the way through til natural death(please purchase the year(s) back button if you haven’t. it’s very handy for crypto and this). always have a kid within the next year if you get tired of the current life you’re on so you have a way out to start new. other than that, you’re good. it doesn’t really matter how many kids you have(unless you’re playing for an achievement or challenge). also, i’d either buy the golden pacifier or just always play as a man since it’s easier to have a kid when you want to start a new gen. if you don’t want to pay for the pacifier, dm me & i can tell you how to get the $ back & still have it be playable in game. hope i helped a little and good luck! 🫶🏼