We got notice in the mail today that our first monthly ‘barnbidrag’ deposit was made into our bank account. Google Translate translates barnbidrag to child support. It’s a different kind of child support than what we think of in the States. Chris is indeed Amelia’s dad and yes we are still living together. Barnbidrag is coming from the Swedish government. Even though they didn’t have any part in the birth of Amelia they are kindly going to help pay for some of her expenses. I think it is absolutely amazing that the government provides financial assistance to families raising children: 1050 kronor a month per child which is about $150. It’s helpful, but then I also remember that Chris is paying at least 40% of his income to taxes, so it’s nice to get some of that money back. Everything is so expensive here too that any little bit of financial assistance is helpful so that we can get out and do things. I just spent 100 kronor/ $15 for Amelia and me to play in the little indoor kiddie pool down the road, and the pool isn’t even a hot spring.
Other tax money goes to day care and maternity leave. Once the 18 month paid maternity leave is over then free daycare, including meals, starts up at 18 months until kiddos start kindergarten at age 6. However, there is a long waiting list (up to 6 months) for the free daycare. This is yet another way in which the government is family friendly. Or is it family friendly? I haven’t met a Swedish stay at home mom or dad beyond the maternity leave. I wonder if the deal is so good – having free daycare and a two income family – that it is too good to pass up or maybe it is so expensive to live here that you need two incomes. ?? I have noticed that Swedes have a way of doing things (very little diversity) so perhaps the work and day care system is just the way it is, just because.
In any case, from an out-sider's perspective their system seems to be working. People dress nicely; have lots of vacation time; the downtown shopping area is large and bustling; all schools including Universities are free; and everyone has health care. I'll try to dig deeper and get the in-siders' point of view.
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