When it comes to the kids the money just flies out of your pocket or purse so it seems and you feel as though you are not doing so well with your money saving goals. Naturally as a parent you want to give your child the best but your resources are limited. Areas you can minimize expenses as a parent are
1. Clothes and shoes
The sign will be the bulging drawers, the clothes strewn on the bed and floor and the many pairs of shoes in carton boxes. Minimizing spending in this area can do your account a world of good. How many pairs of jeans or pretty shimmery dresses does one child need? You are better off buying good quality and versatile clothing. Also, buying gender neutral clothes and colors that can be shared or handed down to the next child is a good way to save money in this area.
2. School Supplies
Pens, pencils, books, paper, drinking bottles, lunch boxes, socks, white T shirts, trainers ( sneakers) and the list goes on. This item on your monthly budget called ‘for school’ can be expensive. You can save yourself some money if you buy them in bulk, if you buy them in advance or if you go to a store that will accept ‘Lay Bye’. Start getting supplies way in advance of the school term opening and if you can, pay monthly. This way you can have a good stock of supplies of all the usual school items that require replacing more than 4 or 5 times a term.
3. Toys
In more cases than less they are a pure waste of money as they are cheaply made and easily break or your child soon gets bored of them. When it comes to toys use the same principle as the clothes. Buy quality, durable and versatile where you can. Non gender specific toys, neutral colors (especially for bicycles), board games and puzzles for ages 0-99 can save you a lot of money. Also, look out for side walk sales, second hand outlets, fetes and household sales as chances are you will find high quality branded toys that will last longer than the shop bought ones that have questionable quality and a short play life.
4. Birthday Parties
These are fantastic occasions to make memories but unfortunately they do more for the guests and their parents rather than the birthday girl or boy. The money and stuff that can go into a 1,2,3 year old’s party can be mind boggling and frankly on many occasion embarrassing for the parent or parents as they are obviously not personalized for the child but are an adult party in disguise.
Not having a party for your baby or toddler does not mean you do not love them. Save the money for regular bills for them and just have cake, a simple meal with a few close friends and family and take photos. When the child is old enough to understand what is going on do have a party, if you can. You can use the early year photos as decorative pieces for the cake or invitation cards. Just remember to devote the day to your child, invite their friends and do things that are their age. It is their birthday not yours and your pals.
