One of my youth group team has invited all the young people to her wedding reception. She is open that she does not want to have children but the kids have begun to think of cards and presents to change her mind. I don’t want any embarrassment on the day.
It is surprising that the young people have been invited – this seems a step too far. However, the decision not to have children should be respected and accepted in the same way that the decision to have them is.
Assumptions are made about getting married and having children across cultures, genders, religions and countries. It is generally accepted that this is “what people do”. However, there are many reasons why people do not have children, either by choice or by chance. Unfortunately, there is a widespread perception that people choose not to have children because they are selfish.
It is not anyone else’s business why your colleague has made this decision. However, the young people can benefit from discussions about childlessness and its place in society.
Answered by Tracie Trimmer-Platman, senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London
Email questions, marked “Experts”, to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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