How To Save Money As A New Parent
Have you been to buy nappies lately? Or toys? They cost a fortune. As an expecting or new parent, you’re probably eager to save a bit of money wherever you can. But, of course, not at the expense of your child’s happiness, health, or safety.
To help you achieve this mythical balance we all strive for – cost efficiency, child happiness/health, and parents’ sanity – here are a few useful tips on how to save money as a new parent.
1. Shop Used and/or Don’t Be Too Proud to Accept Hand-Me-Downs
Any little bit helps. If family/friends offer to give you some of their children’s used clothes, toys, or useful gadgets, accept help. And when shopping for clothes or toys, don’t shy away from resale shops, or buy used online (this saves you time too!). This brings us to our next tip…
2. Browse Online Marketplaces
Facebook Marketplace has recently become a rather popular option for exchanging goods that someone else might not need but might prove useful to others. Browse this virtual marketplace or get involved in Facebook groups intended for new parents. You might be surprised at what you find!
3. Take a Minimalist Approach
We know you want to buy your baby everything. But do they really need it all? You might not skimp on food or quality clothing, but many parents fall into marketing traps that lead to buying gimmicky toys/gadgets which aren’t really useful, serve a double purpose, and/or which their child might not even like!
Products’ promises oftentimes aren’t correct, or at least not scientifically proven. The truth is that kids are happiest when they can use their imagination. An empty carton of milk or random stick might provide much more entertainment than any plastic toy or stuffed animal you buy them – and it will save you a lot of money.
4. Save Coupons and Receipts
This is pretty straightforward. If you need something and have a coupon for it, you’ll save money. But beware – don’t go out buying things just because you have a coupon for it! As for receipts, you never know if your child is going to end up not liking something you bought or if the thing breaks. Saving the receipt might end up saving you money.
5. Safety First
There are many aspects of child safety that you might want to consider, including baby-proofing your home and your car, for example. Preventing injury also prevents additional costs.
According to the Journal of Paediatric Surgery, infants who were properly restrained in the car were 12.7 times less likely to have to go to the trauma center after a collision. What you can do as a parent is driving safely and take care to use a baby seat properly. In case a collision does happen and, if you took the required precautionary measures, you can always turn to a trusted solicitor such as Optimal Solicitors who might help you even if you don’t have car insurance. If you are in need of legal help, you can turn to their Manchester team which has extensive experience in both road traffic accident claims as well as family law so they will handle your case with the care it deserves.
If you use these tips, you’ll save a bit of energy and money, and probably end up not losing hours of (precious) sleep over something you regret doing/buying. And remember – even though you might be experiencing brain fog from exhaustion – be mindful of your purchases and decisions.
