Well, actually that is the chart’s estimate, not my own. We are a pretty thrifty family, so we probably fall below the average that is represented by the chart, as I am sure you and your family do, too. I agree with you that the most important thing is loving our kids, raising them in the Lord, and giving of ourselves to them. Those things don’t cost any extra money. Still, feeding, clothing and educating them does chew up a significant amount of our dollars – all money well spent in my point of view.

Thanks for commenting!

As a father of two I find it hard to believe that the cost of raising a child from birth to age 18 is as high as you have estimated and certainly not as high as the Department of Agriculture, those crafty specialists in child rearing, have estimated. Removing the cost for what my cost of living is and adjusting for adding a couple of extra bedrooms in a Minnesota home vs. a California home is of course most likely where some disparity lies but the bottom line is kids don’t add that much over time unless you let them. Giving your child the best of everything is not the answer to bringing up a child who will do well in society, respect others and most importantly let the Lord into his life. Giving of oneself to his/her child is the best way to raise your children . . . and it doesn’t cost a dime.