The first few years of parenthood can be a sleep-deprived, money-sucking blur.
Youre constantly counting down to the next stage of child-rearing when you anticipate expenses to ease up.
Or when your kids in school and you’re able to finally stoppaying for full-time child care.
Dantaisha Bellamy, 13, left, plays basketball with Officer Michael Yarbrough at the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg. Chris Zuppa/The Penny Hoarder
These 13 money-saving strategies can provide some financial relief when it comes to your childrens expenses.
Its also imperative tobudget for back-to-school expensesahead of time.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
2.
Streamlining your guest list will also help reduce costs.
Cut travel costs by carpooling and equipment expenses by buying secondhand.
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5.
Contactyour local YMCA branchfor more information.
DIY Your Kids Summer Camp Experience
Paying weeklysummer camp costscan be brutal.
Form your ownsummer camp co-op.
Gather a bunch of parents together who can take turns playing camp counselor and watching the kids each week.
Brainstorm low-cost activities to fill up the day, and collectively chip in for snacks and lunches.
Dont Blow Through Cash Entertaining the Kids
The refrain of Im bored grows old fast.
Host a game night or put on a talent show.
Attend a local festival or pitch a tent at a free campsite.
Getlow-cost or free tutoringonline through sites likeKhan Academyor by watchingeducational YouTube channels.
Eliminate Post-Holiday Gift-Giving Remorse
Heed thefour-gift rule.
Other tips tosave money on Christmas shoppingare shopping online, using money-saving apps likeStashorAcornsand snagging deals year round.
Learn How to Take Professional-Quality Photos
Go the DIY approach to avoid paying for pricy photo packages.
Just Say No to Your Kids
Sometimes youve got to lay down the hammer.
Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
When you log into your bank account, how do your savings look?
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
