The birth rate is a key factor for the demographic situation and development of a country. This article initially provides definitions for important metrics such as the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and the Cohort Fertility Rate (CFR). Subsequently, the TFR of Germany is presented in comparison with Europe, showing how it has developed over time. This not only discusses the changes in family policy and its impact on the birth rate but also explores the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on family planning. Previous studies indicate that the decline in families with many children has particularly contributed to the decrease in the birth rate, and a 2-child norm predominates in Germany. Based on the Family Demographic Panel FReDA, an analysis was conducted to identify demographic groups that do not consider having two children as the ideal number: education, migration background, religiosity, and age significantly influence this ideal. The discrepancy between the desired and realized number of children has various causes, including a frequent postponement of the desire to have children and an increasing risk of infertility with advancing age. Education about fertility limits enables informed decisions in family planning.