Like the debates over the poverty line, the current debate over the cost of raising a child has caused a stir. (How can you not factor in housing and childcare in these latest calculations? Bargain-shopping, seems to be the reply.)
In a previous job, I was once asked to update the Manitoba Department of Agriculture’s 2004 study on the cost of raising a child. Which child, I asked? The one that went to the local library in the summer because it was free, the one that went to day-camp, or the one that went to overnight-camp? I couldn’t do it.
Kids, it seems, come in bargain, retail and luxury versions. So, following on the concrete examples offered by academics like Peggy MacIntosh for how race affects privilege, here are some contrasts for children. Assign the costs yourself.
| Category | Bargain | Retail | Luxury |
| Housing | Apartment | Semi-detached in city or House in suburbs | Detached downtown (and country escape) or House in country |
| Sleeping arrangements | Bunk beds | Double bed | King-sized bed |
| Transport to (high) school | Walk | Bus pass | Drive |
| School lunch | Bread & butter | 7 Grain bread & meat / cheese | Prepared hot lunch |
| Tutoring | After school (detention) | Local university student | Professional tutor |
| Childcare | Neighbour / Family / Stay home | Childcare centre, preferably licensed | Nannies |
| Summer vacation | Visit to family (again) | Cottage (again) | Europe (again) |
| Summer camp | Community agency with field trips to local park | Skills / Interest-based camp (Circus, Science, Video Games, etc.) | Overnight “Away” camp, one month plus. |
| Home computer | Anything 5 years old; no printer | Personal Computer (shared desktop) | Mac Computer (own laptop) |
| Outside play area | Sidewalk | Backyard | Tennis club |
| Birthday present | New clothes | New toys | New electronics |
| Dishwasher | Family member | Maytag | Maid |
| Laundry | Laundromat | Kenmore | Maid |
| High school failure | Drop-out | Alternative high school | Prep school |
| Crooked teeth | So? | Braces, but only for one sibling | Invisible braces |
| School supply shopping | Dollar Store | Staples | Apple store |
| Birthday party | Home, with games | Party Room (bowling, play gym, etc.) | Home (with bowling, bouncy castle, pony, clown, etc.) |
Lots more examples to think of, no?
Belonging Community 