Friday, January 13, 2012

Saving Money on Your Kids

Frugal Friday

Raising children is a commitment and an expense. Once they are born, there is no turning back. There will be clothing, housing, toys, food, schooling, etc. And as prices start to rise, and income starts to shrink, the challenge of affording it all grows.

But whether you have one child or eight, there are ways to save money while giving them a healthy, fulfilling life.

• Instead of buying new toys, host a toy swap with other mothers. Children get 'new' toys that will hold their interest, you you get them for free!
• Share babysitting costs by sharing the babysitter. Have the kids all at one house, and pay the sitter a little extra per hour for each extra child.
• Start a baby-sitting co-op where you trade babysitting with other parents at no charge.
• Use cloth diapers and wipes instead of disposable diapers or baby wipes. Launder in hot water and bleach.
• Use glass baby bottles instead of disposable liners.
• Sign up for free samples (baby powder, vitamins, wipes, etc.) with manufacturing companies.
• When your little ones outgrow their footsie pajamas, cut off the feet and use socks instead.

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