Slate Money Money on the Mind: To Have Kids or Not to Have Kids
Oct 30, 2025
Anna Sale, the empathetic host of Death, Sex & Money, joins Felix Salmon to tackle the decision of whether to have children. They explore the hidden financial burdens of parenting, like childcare and housing, and how these costs affect family planning. Anna shares her emotional reasons for having two kids, while Felix discusses his childless lifestyle. They also examine how parenthood reshapes social dynamics and friendships, and reflect on the long-term benefits that children might bring in terms of support and legacy.
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Kids Combine Emotional And Financial Weight
- Children trigger strong emotional and financial reactions that complicate rational planning.
- Felix and Anna frame the cost of kids as both material and deeply emotional.
Jewelry As A Budgeting Metaphor
- Anna describes jewelry choices to illustrate trade-offs she made before and after having kids.
- She contrasts a meaningful pearl bought later and cheap costume jewelry to show budget shifts.
Leverage Grandparents For Childcare Savings
- Use extended family to lower childcare costs when possible.
- Anna notes grandparent care can be a major money-saver if grandparents are willing and healthy.