Prohibitive cost of parenthood

In the UK in 1990 it was estimated that the cost involved in rearing a child from birth to coming of age, by the most minimal standards, exceeds £56,000. By the highest standards it can reach £250,000, with middle-income couples investing approximately £178,000. In April 1990, the minimum cost per week was: 0-4 years, £43.89; 5 to 7 years, £51.24; 8 to 10 years, £56.14; 11 to 12 years, £61.04; 13 to 15 years, £65.87; 16 to 18 years, £87.85.