In 2011, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) released its latest "Expenditures on Children by Families" report. A number of reports have since come out, but this one seems to be the most comprehensive, and the numbers really don't seem to have changed much since then.
The report analyzes the average cost of raising a child in America to the age of 17 (beginning from 2011). The study revealed the following statistics:
- Middle income parents of a child born in 2011 can expect to spend about $234,900 (or $13,800 per year) for food, shelter, and other necessities to raise a child over the next 17 years.
- Kids get more expensive as they get older. Teenagers cost about $1,270 more per year. (A toy car for a 4-year-old is cheaper than car insurance for your 16-year-old.)
- Additional housing costs (extra bedrooms and bathrooms) account for the largest expense.
- Children are subject to "economies of scale," also called the "cheaper by the dozen" factor. In other words, expenses per child decrease as a family has more children.
The report failed to mention that children are also a blessing from the Lord. The scriptures are clear about this fact. How important is it that God's people help children in becoming responsible and loving Christians? Priceless!
Our responsibilities as Christians lies not only in how we raise our own children (if we have any), but how we support those parents who struggle to raise theirs. A kind word, a supportive pat on the shoulder, or an understanding, sincere compliment can help parents through their challenging days.
Let's remember to do what we can to show God's love to parents, and to their children.
