S1E80: A focus on one-child couples is an easier baby booster than large families

The Straits Times Podcasts · Jun 23, 2026 · 56m

Targeting one-child couples for a second child is lower-hanging fruit than pushing for a third under the Large Families Scheme, says a researcher.

Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.

Stopping at one or two children is such a norm in Singapore that a 'large family' now means having three or more children.

This definition comes after the government launched the large families scheme in 2025, in a bid to encourage Singaporeans to expand their households.

In its first year alone, the scheme has already stepped in to…