Being a parent is supposed to be happy and exciting, and only slightly panicking. Unfortunately, when it gets harder to survive and you’re constantly worrying if you can afford food and rent, parenting becomes more challenging. Thankfully, we’ve got a solution. Making and sticking to a budget when you have toddlers can change the game immeasurably. So let’s start saving!
Activities
Activities can take a large chunk out of your budget. The zoo and aquariums all cost money. However, if you plan smarter, there are tons of activities that don’t cost anything. For instance, depending on where you live, you’ll find free museums, you could take your children on a picnic, or take them to a library. They always have bulletin boards with free events. It’s a great way to entertain your children without spending money. If you can afford it, consider buying passes for your favorite activities. Buying for a year ends up saving you quite a bit.
Shop Smarter
The grocery store is another area where you’re likely to rack up your spending, but there are things parents can do to bring that down. When you shop, try buying your fruits and vegetables in season, make a list and stick to it, and come up with a meal plan. All of these will ensure that you don’t spend more than you need to. If you have leftovers, freeze them and you can turn them into quick meals.
Coupons
Coupons are not just for grannies anymore. It’s for everyone. You can get clothes, food, tickets, and far more for free. Some companies will send you coupons if you write to them. Utilize that and write to your children’s favorite brands. When couponing, be sure to sign up for the rewards programs at your favorite stores. You’ll earn free gifts and coupons for things you buy on a regular basis.
Thrift
Children grow like crazy and clothes can get expensive. When you want to save money on clothes and you want to avoid fast fashion, thrift. If you’re worried about the quality of the clothes, inspect them first, but 90% of thrift stores have high quality clothes, no stains, and it can be pretty cheap if you know what to look for.
Check Clearance
Every store has clearance, and if you’re smart about it, you can get a year’s worth of birthday gifts for your children’s friends at school for under $30. Then, anytime your child gets invited to a birthday party, you don’t have to buy anything. You can simply reach into the closet. This not only saves you money, but it saves you a lot of time.
Negotiate Your Bills
Because companies want you to stay with them and not choose another service, you might be able to negotiate your bills and lock in a cheaper price. Your internet bill, phone, insurance, and more can all be negotiated, and it’s worth the effort to try. The worst they can do is tell you no, but if you’re successful, you may get $200 or more in savings.
Facebook Marketplace
Another great way to utilize secondhand shopping is Facebook Marketplace. Books, clothes, toys, and so much more can be found here for cheap or even free. A lot of people don’t have the time to sell the items or they want to do something good for those around them so they give the items away. There are also groups on the app where people give things away for free locally. Moms have been able to find entire wardrobes for their children this way.
Plan Holidays And Trips In Advance
Traveling with kids can be incredibly expensive, and you should plan in advance so you can get the best price. If you want to take a trip in the summer, start planning months in advance and try to book ahead. Because you’re booking so far in advance, you’ll find that you’re getting a much better deal. You can also shop for cheap decorations throughout the year when they’re on sale, so you’re not spending more on parties or holiday decorations.
Cut Down On Energy
You might not want to turn into the cranky grandpa who always complains about the lights and the thermostats, but the cranky grandpa saved money, and so can you. Turn off the lights in the rooms you’re not using, keep the thermostat at a certain temperature, and make sure you’re saving water. You’ll end up saving far more than you think.
Eat Out Less
We get it. Moms are busy, and you don’t always have time to cook, but eating out gets expensive. When going through budgets, some moms found they were spending $700 on fast food every week without realizing it. Whether you’re spending that much or $100, eating out less and staying home more will ensure that you’re saving more money.
Saving Money Like A Pro
When you want to start saving like a pro, try utilizing these tips. You’ll change the way you spend and become more intentional as a result. Through these methods, you’ll not only be smarter about shopping for food and other necessities, but you won’t waste a fortune on toys or other items. Have fun shopping and sticking to your budget like never before.
