Debunking the Myths of Parenthood: Children Are Not Expensive
We often hear how children are so expensive. All the things they will need from the time they are born to grow. I’m so tired of hearing all the negativity about having children, especially since the no children movement is so popular now (I don’t get it. It sounds like a lot of trauma and fears). Having a child can be scary due to the fear of the unknown, but every day is strange, and we are still here, moving and shaking. Isn’t that so cool!? We are living in history, and the stories we have to tell future generations will be epic about parenthood!
Many people get so caught up in the “burdens” of the cost of children that they forget to consider the financial, emotional, and social benefits of having children. In this post, we will explore the true cost of raising children, debunk common misconceptions, and offer actionable tips on how to budget effectively for a family. Whether you’re considering having children or looking for ways to manage your family’s finances, this post aims to demonstrate that children aren’t expensive but a worthwhile investment in your future.
Understanding the True Cost of Having Children
The Initial Costs of Having Children
When it comes to having children, the costs are variable, meaning there is no fixed price. A lot of times, it comes down to personal preferences. Having children in a hospital setting costs substantially more than having a child at home or at a birthing center. I have experienced both a hospital birth and a birthing center birth. If I had to do it again, I’d always choose a birthing center.
Not only because it’s cheaper, but there are fewer restrictions to how many people you can have in your suite, and you don’t have to be confined to a bed. Also, you can freely choose what birth position you want to be in and where you want to give birth, whether it’s in water or on the bed. It’s definitely a more comforting experience. And you get to leave with the baby on the same day! It’s also important to remember that many of these costs are one-time expenses. Once you purchase a crib, stroller, car seat, and other necessities, you won’t have to rebuy them for future children.
All other ongoing costs of raising children are also variables. Some mothers prefer to breastfeed, while others may choose formula. How mothers decide to feed their children primarily focuses on the mother’s mental health. Food, clothes, and childcare are factors that can be budgeted since you can shop around for those things. I pureed my children’s food which definitely saved money, and a lot of clothes were given, whether brought brand new or second-hand clothing, from my first child or nieces and nephews.
The Financial Benefits of Having Children
We all know about the tax benefits that children provide. Still, the financial benefits of having children are more profound than that. Having children makes you hustle for a greater purpose other than yourself. They put you in a position to ensure you have the basic necessities covered at all times. You hustle to give them the opportunities you wish you had at their age. The grind is real, but it’s fun because of its purpose—when your children’s faces light up at the end of the day, it makes everything worthwhile.
How to Budget Effectively for A Family
The best way to budget effectively is to track monthly expenses and sort out your family’s needs from wants. This helps prioritize your family’s spending and income to ensure you are spending appropriately. Check out Caroline Vencil; she provides great tips and insights into budgeting and ways to save money for a family.
How to Navigate Your Children’s Wants and Needs
As we know, children are always asking for something. Sometimes it’s not things they want or need. They see it and like it at that moment. It can be tedious to constantly hear them scream, “I want this!” When every commercial pops up (the commercial doesn’t even have to sell anything). To stop your children from always wanting something, practice gratitude with them. They will learn to appreciate what they have and only ask for things they want. This will take some practice for them to get used to, but when they get the hang of it, they will be happier and more resilient. They will also be more inclined to want to help others.
The Emotional and Social Benefits of Having Children
The emotional and social benefits of having children surpass the monetary gain. Having children feeds your inner child. Your inner child is your connection with your child self and childhood memories that need to be healed from trauma. Most people recover from that trauma by providing a safe space for their children to be who they are, which offers immense joy, love, and fulfillment to both children and parents. The feelings of joy, love, and fulfillment allow for personal growth and development. It provides a means of purpose for parents and a stronger family bond.
Providing a safe space for your children allows parents to create new perspectives, learn new things, and create unforgettable memories with their children. Ultimately, the benefits of having children far outweigh the financial and emotional costs, making it a worthwhile investment for any family.
FAQs
Are children really not expensive?
Having children does come with some financial responsibilities, such as healthcare expenses, education costs, and other associated expenses. However, the idea that raising children is prohibitively expensive is a myth. By budgeting effectively and prioritizing spending, you can provide for your children’s needs and wants and secure your family’s financial future.
How can I budget effectively for a family with children?
To budget effectively for a family with children, it’s essential to first identify your family’s needs versus wants. Once you clearly understand your family’s priorities, you can create a budget that aligns with these goals. Additionally, it’s essential to be mindful of your family’s spending habits and find ways to cut costs, such as by finding affordable childcare options or reducing unnecessary expenses.
What are the emotional and social benefits of having children?
In addition to the financial benefits of having children, numerous emotional and social rewards come with starting a family. For many parents, having children can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment and a closer bond with their partner. Children can also provide opportunities for personal growth and development and a chance to create lasting memories and traditions as a family.