ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Eight in 10 parents think having a baby costs more than it should, according to a new national survey from University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor.
The Mott Poll on Children’s Health asked 2,027 parents of kids up to age 18 in July about the money side of the early years. Nearly every parent, 96%, said early development matters for long-term health, but only 59% called help for families with young children a good use of tax money.
Paid leave around pregnancy or a birth drew the strongest backing, with 73% saying they would strongly support it in their state. Formula or healthy food programs came next at 60%, and free or cheaper childcare at 56%.
Among parents of children 3 or younger, 40% said their finances were struggling or just getting by. To cope, 68% picked up secondhand clothes and gear, 58% trimmed extras and 42% worked more hours or saved ahead.
Poll co-director Sarah Clark said parents know what young children need but often cannot afford all of it, and that direct help such as paid leave lets families decide what matters most.
Filed under: Ann Arbor MI Health News
