The FEDERAL Statistical Office in Germany published a study on family spending for children and calculated that the average spending of parents on a child up to the age of 18 amounts to around 150,000 euros. The costs for a child are divided into three age groups: from 0 to 6 years, from 6 to 12 years, and from 12 to 18 years, writes Fenix Magazin.

Costs up to age 6

In its calculations, the Federal Statistical Office arrives at costs of around 587 euros per month, which relate to food, diapers, toys, accommodation, and clothing. Initial equipment and possible care costs are not included.

Initial equipment for babies alone costs around 3,000 euros. The costs of a place in nursery amount to around 400 euros, and for kindergarten children around 250 euros per month. However, the fees are linked to the place of residence and vary greatly from region to region.

Costs incurred up to age 12

Monthly costs rise with each year of a child's life. Especially in the first year of life, parents still benefit from many gifts, loans, and support from family and friends. However, from the time they start school, trips during school holidays, hobbies, and school excursions must be financed. The birthday wish list also becomes longer and longer.

With age, demands also grow. While we still try to encourage children to play outdoors in the fresh air, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, and computers seem much more attractive to them. Brand awareness and the right style are now increasingly present, and that comes at a price. According to the Federal Statistical Office, a schoolchild costs their parents around 686 euros per month. Holidays, care, hobbies, and the like are also not included here.

Costs incurred up to age 18

After the age of 12, that is, at the beginning of puberty, monthly costs rise again for many. In total, parents then have to set aside around 784 euros per month for a child. Teenagers eat more at that time and are always looking for the most fashionable clothes. The amounts for pocket money and leisure activities are also higher.

In conclusion, a child costs an average of 684 euros per month. By the age of 18, that means around 150,000 euros per child. However, costs rise with each year of the child's life:

0 to 6 years: 587 euros per month, around 7,000 euros per year, 42,260 for 6 years

6 to 12 years: 686 euros per month, around 8,200 euros per year, 49,400 for 6 years

12 to 18 years: 784 euros per month, 9,400 euros per year, 56,400 for 6 years

There is also good news in this calculation: the more children there are in a household, the lower the average costs per child. Mainly because you can shop, cook, and plan in larger quantities. Clothes and toys can be inherited by younger siblings.

Source: index.hr