Core Viewpoint - The media has overstated the financial burden of raising children, and concerns about money should not delay family planning according to personal finance expert Dave Ramsey [1][2]. Group 1: Cost of Raising Children - Ramsey argues that the initial costs of raising children, such as formula and diapers, are manageable, and after the first few years, children primarily consume household food [2]. - The average annual cost of raising a child under five has increased by 4.5% year over year, reaching $27,700 last year, as reported by SmartAsset [3]. Group 2: Financial Stability and Family Planning - Ramsey emphasizes that couples should not wait to achieve financial stability before having children, stating that wealth is not a prerequisite for raising good children [2]. - He suggests that couples should work together towards long-term financial goals rather than viewing children as obstacles to debt repayment or wealth accumulation [2][4]. Group 3: Marriage and Financial Readiness - Ramsey advises that individuals should marry when they feel ready, rather than postponing until they have built wealth, as long as both partners agree on financial management [3]. - He acknowledges that delaying family planning may be reasonable during emergencies or significant financial setbacks, but not for long-term goals like paying off a mortgage [4].