Childfree by choice

Article: Childfree by choice (PDF)

Objectives

• To discuss the pros and cons of having children.
• To become aware of the factors that influence the decision to have children

Methods

1. Survey the class to find out how many students plan on having children in the future. What percentage expect to have no children, one child, two children or more than two? Discuss some of the reasons why some students expect not to have children at all, while others plan to have two or more. Are girls and boys equally likely to want a family?
2. According to the article, the relationship between income, education and childlessness is not straightforward. Organize the students into two teams and have them debate the effect of income and education on the decision to have children.
3. In contrast to the 1950s, when families were large, many Canadians today expect to have no children or just one child. What implications does this have for Canada demographically, economically or socially? Discuss.
4. Although most people agree that, generally, children are better off when they have two parents, the number of lone-parent families is on the rise. What are some of the implications of bringing up a child alone?
5. Many childless people claim that there is a societal stigma associated with openly admitting to not wanting children. Have the students discuss why this may be the case.
6. Ask the students to list reasons for and against having children. Are there some people who should not have children? What types of personality traits may make someone a good parent?

Please e-mail comments or examples of how you used this exercise in your class.