I know many people disagree with me, but theoretically I don’t think money should play a role in this decision. Waiting for financial security to have kids, if everyone follows that, sort of suggests that children are a luxury. For you and Mr. Money, it may only mean waiting several years until you’ve paid off some debt. For people under the poverty line or who have suffered job loss or catastrophe, it might mean never. Also, if people with very little money put off having kids, they are going to have a heck of a time affording pricey fertility treatments if they need them later. I’d just hate for anyone to miss out on the heritage of children solely because of money, and I think this is an issue that is getting worse as maternity care becomes more expensive. Parents are also expected to spend a fortune on their children these days. Anyway, waiting because of money concerns is a personal decision and I can definitely understand why someone would make it. We got married in college and waited until I graduated and got a job to try for a baby, mostly because of money. With our insurance situation, we likely would’ve been paying for prenatal care and the birth out of pocket! Yikes! What makes me sad is that I’ve seen people bash others for having “too many kids” and costing them money through Medicaid and WIC (without even knowing whether the family is really on it!). I hate that.

With a 6 year old, a 4 1/2 year old, and a 9 month old…energy is in short supply these days!

Thanks so much!