This survey sought to estimate the economic value of children to their parents in two peasant villages in Java and Nepal in order to examine the economic interpretation of fertility. The major focus is on estimating directly the contribution of children's labor in terms of average time spent per day in different types of activities. The support provided by children to their elderly parents was assessed primarily by examining the pattern of residential arrangements. Data were collected and tabulated for work inputs of male vs. female children; work input of children vs. adults; effect of number of siblings on work inputs; children's work input and household economic efficiency; and value of children as old age security. Methodological problems are discussed. Data indicate that work input of children under 15 is quite substantial, and that children most probably have net positive economic value to their parents aside from old age security. (SB)