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For many parents, pampering is one of the first things to go when
tightening the budget belt. Fortunately, with a little creativity, you can
still indulge in sweet self-care at a fraction of the price. Check it out:
Babies grow up at the speed of light (it’s scientifically proven), which is
why designer infant clothing can end up costing you a fortune. Here are
a few tips for purchasing clothes for your little ones:
By Susan M. Keenan
Buy larger sizes
If you find a great deal on a bigger size, buy it.
Your child will likely grow into it in the coming year.
Shop consignment
Don’t necessarily shy away from second-hand
stores.You might find quality clothing at a very
attractive price.
Champagne experiences
Three ways to treat yourself at home
on a wine cooler budget:
If winter weather has your family scratching at the walls (you can only do so many puzzles), we can help.
Keep your kids entertained indoors and teach them about money by making DIY piggy banks.
Build it from scratch
Another option is to use a household item
as your “piggy bank;” plastic bottles work
well. Just soak off the label and visit the craft
store to pick up feet (foam balls), tails (pipe
cleaner), as well as paint and glitter.
Get decorative
One easy way to let your kids create
personalized piggies is to start with
inexpensive plastic or ceramic banks.You
can probably pick one up (along with art
supplies) at the nearest dollar store.
The lesson
Piggy banks teach kids the value of putting
money away for later. Learning to save
will help them avoid financial crises, and
may even encourage them to invest for
retirement sooner than later.
The DIY piggy bank:
your next indoor winter activity
By Be Conrad
Visit outlets
Outlet stores offer discounted deals, and
visiting them during a clearance sale will
snag you even more savings.
Buy basic colors over prints
Having basic colors on hand lets you mix
and match, and create “new” outfits.
“
Ditch designer
”
and other budget tips
for baby clothes
1.
DIY movie theatre
You can stream movies any old night. Step the up the cinematic experience by re-creating
the movie theatre in your living room. Dim the lights, buy classic candy and make
popcorn on your stovetop (and don’t forget the truckload of butter, obviously).
2.
Eat take-out… from your kitchen
Ordering take-out is a nice luxury—it’s also expensive. Learn how to
make one of your favorite restaurant meals instead. You’ll save money
on the food you love, and make eating-in feel like a special occasion.
3.
Try a little aromatherapy
You can spend way too much money at the spa… or you can re-create a “spa vibe” by
diffusing naturally-scented oils at home. Using lavender, rose or vetiver may help you
unwind just long enough for that next argument to break out between your kids.