Editor’s note: The following article is an op-ed, and the views expressed are the author’s own. Read more opinions on theGrio.
Let me start by saying that I have four children, ranging in age from nearly 15 to 3. So I understand that my expense-lot in life is going to be much higher than a person who doesn’t have as many. I get that. But I think that just makes my life MORE expensive, not that fewer kids make life inexpensive if that makes sense. I think it does.
I just wanted to put that out there early so you have context on this rave and rant. Cool? Cool.
Yo, kids are expensive. I used to be one of those people who would tell you that kids really aren’t THAT expensive. I don’t know why I would say such a foolish thing short of timing. You see, babies … aren’t that expensive. Sure, diapers are a constant expense as can be baby food, formula, etc. But if the baby is being breastfed, those costs can be much lower early on. Little ones, if you’re lucky, aren’t in daycare immediately and the pandemic had a ton of folks working from home so I would assume that for some, daycare costs weren’t as bad as they could be.
But as my kids get older and grow, it seems like every single day costs at least $100. It’s as if I have to PAY to get through the day; every day is the club, and I’m buying drinks for everybody.
Between sports activities (which are INSANELY priced even if they all are reasonable-ish?) growing children’s need for clothing and shoes that fit, food, activities, food, food, iPhone/iPad data, toys, gas to get kids to and from wherever, food — and did I mention food? — the activities of daily living are whipping my derriere.
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