Mr Lee, in his Chinese New Year message this year, said the Government will be stepping up measures to support parents and help manage the pressures of raising children. In a Facebook post on Monday (Feb 13), Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong said that Tuesday’s Budget 2023 – themed “moving forward in a new era” – will strengthen the nation’s social compact and give assurance for families.
Research suggests financial incentives, like the Baby Bonus, are ineffective in increasing fertility rates. Singapore’s resident fertility rate has been gradually declining over the past decades, falling to a low of 1.1 in 2020. It recovered slightly to 1.12 in 2021.
While financial incentives may not count for much in the decision-making process, they sure come in handy once couples take the plunge. The cash payouts and Government matching on Child Development Account contributions have helped my family offset months of full-time infant care. These could stretch longer for those who have other help at home or start childcare at a later age.
SHARED STRUGGLES BUT PERSONAL JOYS OF PARENTHOOD
Today’s parents aren’t the best at “selling” parenthood. I worry sometimes that I’ve unwittingly contributed to discouraging younger female friends and colleagues from having children.
We share horror stories about labour and juggling work and home. Our eyebags tell the story of interrupted nights. And which working mum hasn’t sent that apologetic text to teammates when children fall sick? (I did, just last week.)
The truth is the challenges of parenthood are relatable and felt by friends and colleagues – from missing out on social gatherings and needing cover for missed work – but the joys of being a parent are intensely and exclusively personal.
One “Mama, I want a hug” and the stress melts away for me, even if momentarily.
Yes, many challenges are inherent in creating and keeping a tiny human being alive and thriving, so there is a limit to how much Government and company policies can address them.