The Star Malaysia

There are low cost ways to raise children

- SIVA KUMAR Kajang

Referring to the report “Malaysians find it’s too expensive to raise a child now” ( The Star, Sept 11), it is obviously very costly if you think about things that are of high standards which you as a parent would like to give your child.

Why can’t young parents think about the less costly route to raise their children, like using the services of government hospitals from day one of conceiving the child? Why do they want to think about using the services of private hospitals when it is well known that government hospitals provide a good service in the maternity sector?

Think also about spending in moderation for the celebratio­n you will want to have to welcome the new family member.

Don’t worry about what others will think or say, just do what is financiall­y right.

When it comes to kindergart­en, send your children to government institutio­ns instead of the top notch ones because, at the end of the day, all the little ones need is to know the basics to prepare them for school.

Don’t compare yourselves or your children with others. Run your race at your own pace. You can also put aside time to guide your children at home just like your parents did with you.

It all depends on adjusting your time and making little sacrifices. It will also create a nice bond between the child and parent.

Get your child to eat homecooked food, but once in a while treat them to a little luxury. Raising a child is a challenge but it can be cheap if you know how.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Malaysia