Personal care costs are for such needs as haircuts, shampoo, tooth brushes and toothpaste. Costs could easily double or triple depending on age and involvement in recreational activities. Included are reading materials, toys and games, a bicycle, some sports equipment, and membership or lessons in one activity. Recreation costs do not include more expensive interests, such as private music lessons, dancing or gymnastics, competitive hockey or ringette. Summer activities for school age children under 12 years assume free recreation programs combined with babysitting.
School needs cover school supplies, clothing for physical education and some incidentals.
Costs do not include expenses related to graduation, as they are a matter of choice. Attendance at or savings for post-secondary education are also not included. Children's allowances are included in the overall costs. Transportation costs often increase with the presence of a child. Whether it is to transport a child to and from school or the sitter, or the use of a car by a teenager, the kilometres add up quickly.