We can all benefit from money-saving tips and ideas, especially when parenthood is full of unexpected adventures – some brilliant, some terrifying. With the cost of raising a child at nearly a quarter of a million dollars, according to data from the Department of Agriculture, it’s easy to see how one of the most daunting challenges can be affording it at all. Even the most responsible, a budget-conscious parent can still be caught out by an unexpected bill – and don’t they all tend to come at once!
Being savvy about managing your options in the face of these setbacks is crucial, not only to keep your family afloat but also to teach your kids how to make sensible decisions when they have their own finances to organize. You can give your children their very own positive role model at home with these simple tips.
How to Budget and Save
Be prepared to put money by each month. It goes without saying that if you’re able to put aside a little each month to save, then you’ll be in a strong position when hard times hit. However, families are already feeling the squeeze and choosing to spend money on more immediate priorities instead of saving for the long term so it may simply not be an option for you to put much by on a regular basis.
Take the view that whatever you can manage to put aside is a bonus; skip the take-out, take a packed lunch to work or bring in a coffee from home. It may only be a few dollars here and there but the small things soon add up.
Stay flexible and Find effective ways to save money
Finance options have changed over the years and there is now a wider range of choices than ever. Washing machine packed up? Did the car fail its service? Get savvy by reading up on what’s out there and choose something that suits your needs and financial position.
Educate yourself on raising funds with smart finance options including refinancing deals and loans, and be clear on what you can realistically afford to pay back each month so that you can face the future with confidence.
Household money-saving tips
Buy goods and services with guarantees. Where possible, try to buy appliances with substantial warranties or guarantees and ensure that you keep the necessary paperwork to hand. Sure, family life is busy and those things are hard to keep on top of, but you’ll be so glad you did if the worst happens.
There’s never going to be a good time for a big bill, but you can be as prepared as possible by saving when you can, being flexible about your finance options, and thinking long term when you make big purchases. A responsible approach to family finance not only protects you and your loved ones, but it also teaches them how to manage life’s inevitable curveballs. And that’s lesson money can’t buy.