Child Benefits

two babies and woman sitting on sofa while holding baby and watching on tablet
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 22, 2020 and last updated on July 13, 2023

Talking about child benefits provides English learners with an engaging conversation topic that promotes language development and understanding of social policies. Discussing child benefits allows learners to practice vocabulary related to family, government support and welfare systems. It encourages critical thinking as learners explore the impact of child benefits on child poverty, education and social equality.

Engaging in conversations on this topic also helps learners gain cultural insights into the value placed on children’s well-being and the role of government in supporting families. Overall, discussing child benefits enhances language proficiency and fosters discussions on important social issues.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Child Benefits

Child benefits, also known as child allowances or child welfare payments, are financial support programs provided by governments to assist families in raising their children. These benefits aim to ensure the well-being and development of children by helping parents cover the costs of child-rearing expenses. They vary across countries and can include monthly or periodic payments, tax credits and other forms of assistance.

Child benefits play a crucial role in addressing child poverty, promoting equal opportunities and supporting families in providing a nurturing environment for their children. Understanding child benefits allows for discussions on social policies, family dynamics and the welfare of children in different societies.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • financial (adjective)
  • benefit (noun)
  • benefit (verb)
  • assistance (noun)
  • means -tested (idiom)
  • bring up (phrasal verb)
  • raise (verb)
  • restriction (noun)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • How familiar are you with child benefits in your country? Can you explain how they work?
  • Do people with children get financial support from the government in your country?
  • Should people with children get financial support from the government?
  • Do you think any financial help for those with children should be means tested so it goes to people who really need it?
  • What do you think is a suitable amount people should receive?
  • Do you think this benefit should be per child?
  • Should there be any restrictions on who can receive this financial help?
  • Why do you think some people say there should be no financial help from the government for those who decide to have children?
  • What are some possible advantages and disadvantages of providing child benefits?
  • How do child benefits contribute to reducing child poverty and promoting social equality?
  • Are there any additional services or support that should be included along with child benefits?
  • How do you think child benefits impact the decision to have children or family planning?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.