Year 2000 baby boom

The year 2000 saw a mini baby boom, with several contributing factors believed to be extant, compared to the iconic term more generally called by that name. [ [http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr52/nvsr52_17.pdf Reproduction rates for 1990-2002] , National Vital Statistics Reports, 18 March 2004 (accessed 20 January,2007)]

* Many couples wanted to have a "millennium baby" because it would be a once in a life time occasion, and postponed or brought forward their planned children to aim for childbirth during the "special" year.
* It was the year of "Golden Dragon" according to the Chinese zodiac. Chinese families around the world brought forward their decisions to extend their families during this time of good omen.
* The preceding boom in many stock markets brought money and good feelings to young professionals who were of child-bearing age, their newly gained sense of wealth encouraging parenthood.

The boom was very short-lived. However, millennium babies noticeably outnumbered those born in the preceding and following years.

The surge in population for one particular year group puts a strain on educational systems from nurseries to universities. Special classes must be opened to accommodate the increase of students for that particular age.

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