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Falling birth rates in the U.S. have raised concerns that the current total fertility rate (TFR) has fallen "below replacement" level. In reality, the relationship between current fertility rates and population decline is not straightforward.

Concerns about “depopulation” are widespread, but demographers caution against alarm. Population projections are useful guides, but not crystal balls.

One in five U.S. college students are raising children, yet they receive far less financial help from their parents compared to childless students. Instead, student parents rely heavily on Pell Grants, loans, jobs, and support from partners to cover tuition and living costs. Despite having similar GPAs to their peers, student parents are more likely to leave college without a degree due to financial strain and childcare challenges. Completing a degree has life-changing benefits for student parents, especially single mothers, boosting lifetime earnings and reducing poverty. Expanding Pell Grants, reforming aid programs, and providing on-campus childcare and housing could greatly improve student parents’ chances of success.

Main page listing all the articles / presentations at the 2025 Council on Contemporary Families Symposium.