Will I save a lot of money by NOT having kids?

[stressedmama]

If you do not want kids, then please do not have them. Kids are very expensive, but I would not trade mine for the world. The depth of your life after having and raising a child can not be measured monetarily. I would have a lot more money and assets if I did not have my two sons, but would that make me any happier? For me the answer is no. You can not explain how wonderful it is to hear your child tell you that they love you for the first time or say mama or dada. IMO, you can not quantify the depth of love they bring in to your life, and you can not fully understand that until you have children.

[LuxLiving]

How old are you? My kiddo wants did not start until I was in my mid to late 20s. You MAY be a late bloomer.

I'll have to agree with cicy33 on this one. You'll only save money if you put it in the bank or some other investment that retains its value. If you blow it entertaining your every whim, then no, you're likely to spend more.

[MonkeyMama]

Stressedmama - you said it better than I could.

Childless people are probably pretty content to save money, and those with children will probably not care much about the money aspect.

Kids are priceless.

I never particularly wanted kids either, when I Was younger. I am grateful I fell in love with a man who REALLY wanted kids. I am not sure if I would have kids otherwise, and I Could not imagine if I hadn't.

[F16]

I know it is a funny question...but I really do not want to have any children.

Yes, you certainly will save more money when you are childless, but, what's

the purpose of your life?

[PrincessPerky]

If you don't want kids, don't have em! If you get 'babyitis' later on...become a big sister or help a scout troop, or visit a niece/nephew...you might lose that babitiis!

Asking if you will save money by not having kids is like asking if skipping vacation will save money..of course you save the air fare..but what are you doing instead? it might cost as much.

[PrincessPerky]

Yes, you certainly will save more money when you are childless, but, what's

the purpose of your life?

heavens do you really see nothing worthwhile in life outside of children??????

Top research is done by adults, new innovations in medicine, tech, etc. basic needs of all our lives could not be met up to American luxury standards without constant dedication of folks away from kids!

Not to mention proper raising of a child takes many adults..if we all have a house full who has time to help out?

I rarely get riled up about differences in opinion, but the insulting idea that ones life is not worth living childless is too much to ignore...and this is coming from a mother of 4, I like mine, but the life of one handed typing while nursing an infant is nt for everyone!

[ScrimpAndSave]

Whats the purpose of my life? Are you serious?

I'm an elementary music teacher in an urban, poverty stricken school. I take care of 750 students. I just finished my masters in educational administration with a Principal's Certificate after only 4 years of teaching.


I certainly have a purpose.

That was probably one of the most idiotic comments I have ever heard. Sounds like you need to GET a life rather than ask me about the purpose of mine.

[DebbieL]

In defense of F16, I think sometimes things don't quite come across in our postings exactly the way we mean them. I know that's happened to me a time or two!

For the original poster - yes, I do think you will save money by not having kids (unless you choose to live extravagantly on the money you aren't spending on them). I would be farther ahead financially had I not had my daughter. Of course I wouldn't trade her for anything, but the reality is that I would have been further ahead in my career and financial goals by now if I hadn't been a mother.

[fruitbowlk]

I had my dd at 28 and it was the best choice that I have ever made and it have also caused me to be a better saver and to really look at what I'm doing with my money. I have saved so much more money than I did when I was childless. I was spending money like it was no tomorrow when I didn't have a child just because the money was there. Now that I have someone I'm responable for things have changed because I realize being broke just isn't going to cut it when diaper need to be brought.

[sounderella]

We may not have been in the best financial situation when we had out DS but we've made it and we're still kickin'. I don't care that he costs me money. I can try to make the best decisions and spend smartly but never and I mean NEVER would I ever regret having him. or any others we may have.

The aspect of children is based on the person. You know, different strokes for different folks. However, I wouldn't base your decision on the financial aspect alone. Besides, if you don't spend your money on said kids you're gonna end up spending that money somewhere else...whether it's setting it aside for a rainy day or buying stuff

[Akanchawa]

your are not serious

If you says you dont want children that means you are disobeying Gods commandment he says in genesis go and multiply and replainish the earth, so i dont see the reason why you not want to have children. think well

[sounderella]

If you says you dont children that means you are disobeying Gods commandment he says in genesis go and multiply and replainish the earth, so i dont see the reason why you not want to have children. think well

I'm willing to bet we've got a lot of different religions and beliefs on this board so I think we're getting away from the question at hand here.

[Akanchawa]

As for me am praying to God to give set twins. i tell you if God answer my prayer i will not mind spending my last card for them.

[sidney7]

I think kids bring you more wealth in terms of peace, pride and joy than the money in the bank not raising them.
That said, they cost a bundle and will certaintly save you money.

However, you have all this money in the bank, who will you leave it to?

I think they nailed it on the head. You may have more money, but life isn't about money. It's about the people you share your life with. I wouldn't have or not have kids simply for financial reasons.

[rob62521]

One thing I believe is that if you don't want them, don't have them. I feel sorrow for the children who's parents find them to be a burden.

I agree with that and will further that by stating...don't have kids if you don't want the responsibility. As a teacher I see parents who wanted kids for wrong reasons...someone who would love them or for the attention...and now don't do right by these kids.

Not having kids is a personal decision whether it is based on life style, health, or personal beliefs. You and only you know what is best for you and don't be guilted into having kids if you really don't want them. I'm probably preaching to the choir, and I'm sorry. It sounds like you don't want to have children for the wrong reasons and I applaud you.