Back-to-School Costs Worry Parents' League: Extracurricular Fees for Three Children Estimated at €1,500

The cost of extracurricular activities is placing a significant financial burden on Belgian families, with the League of Families estimating that a family with three children could spend €1,500 annually on sports, arts, and youth group activities alone. This figure excludes costs for holiday camps, sports equipment, or musical instruments.

“

And we are talking here only about extracurricular activities, not even about camps during the school holidays

A recent study by the League of Families revealed that two-thirds of the 823 families surveyed struggle to cover these expenses. The situation is particularly acute for low-income households, where 85% of parents report major difficulties in financing these activities. This financial strain is exacerbated by the fact that the costs are often due in a single payment.

Adding to the back-to-school financial pressure, families are facing increased fees for academies, with the previous free access for children under 12 now ending. Furthermore, primary school subsidies are being reduced, and university tuition fees are rising. These escalating costs are causing significant worry, especially as discussions about potentially reducing family allowances continue.

“

More children mean lower incomes, the more difficult it is.

The League of Families highlights that while a back-to-school bonus was issued in early August to help parents, its amount is limited and varies by child's age. This bonus, officially termed the "annual age supplement," ranges from €25 for children up to 5 years old to €101 for those in higher education, a sum that many families find insufficient to cover the rising costs of essential activities and education.

“

We are very concerned because costs are increasing from all sides and, at the same time, some suggest that family allowances could be reduced.