Whats one thing that you and your spouse always said when it came to starting a family? “When we can afford a child we will work on getting pregnant.” A lot of couples wait for the “Financially ready time,” to start a family. I’m not quite sure what we were thinking, but we def knew the undertaking that was about to happen when we started our family.
Personally, in my humble opinion depending on a person’s expectations you aren’t really ever ready completely to have a child. Unless you are extremely wealthy and have the means a low income family just has to make it work. A lot of people are in that position We just make it work so that our children don’t lack for anything.
Ever wonder what it really costs to raise a child? Check out the chart below. It’s very interesting. From “Crib to College,” this chart explains the price differences 1960 and 2011. My how the times have changed!
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Crib to College – Brought To You By California Cryobank
skinnyrunnersr says
really interesting the random things that are cheaper now like a barbie and clothes. but man on man, thats a lot of money! (from what i hear, they’re totally worth it though :))
Candy says
Crazy right! Thanks so much for your comment SR!! *Rockstar moment!*
Jackie says
It is not that expensive. The people who put these charts together are usually design students who don’t even have children. First of all, you don’t have to buy things new. Most parents either receive baby items as gifts (at a shower) or know other parents who are happy to pass along their used gear. As for childcare, you save a ton of money if the mother stays home – and don’t even get me started on how priceless that is for a child’s wellbeing. Also a SAHM has the time to make delicious healthy homemade foods instead of having to rely on store-bought expensive junk. As for education, while this may not apply everywhere, here in Manhattan NYC, public schools are the best in the nation and are free. And there are tons of ways to save on college expenses that are too many to list here.
Candy says
Hi Jackie. You make a lot of great points. Thanks for your comment. 🙂