Joy, reluctance for Chinese families having multiple children

China 24

It’s been a year since China ended its long-standing one-child policy. Predictably, there’s been a major jump in the number of newborns.

But while some families are embracing having a second child — others are more reluctant.

Mothers like Qi Yanxia welcoming a second baby is becoming more common in China.

CGTV Frances Kuo reports.

“My husband and I have always wanted to give our son a sibling, so that they can help each other when they grow up. Before the two-child policy, we were so jealous of those who had a second child. We decided to have one right after the limit was removed,” Qi Yanxia said.

China’s health and family planning commission said nearly 18 million babies were born last year — up more than 11 percent from 2015. China is hoping the boost will offset some social trends — stemming from the one-child policy.

But other families are more hesitant about having a second child.

A recent survey by the All-China women’s federation found more than half of 10,000 families surveyed — don’t want one.

“More than 50 percent of the eligible women are 40 and older. Due to their aging physical condition, they are less willing to have a second child. So, China’s general fertility rate will still remain low,” Zhai Zhenwu, vice president of the China Family Planning Association said.

Not to mention the added expenses and general adapting to having a second child.

It’s also a growing process for china as a whole .The two-child policy is no quick fix to reverse current trends, but just like raising a child — it takes time and some growing pains.