Perhaps I am an expert, with 12 kids so far.

I think "happier" is kind of vague. It could include being content, joyful, less depressed, amused, and more.

You often won't get #1. Kids can be cruel to parents.

You'll have better luck with #2. Life without kids could seem pretty pointless. I never could imagine that life. What do you do that isn't just empty hedonism?