Whether moms work outside the home or are "domestic engineers" (otherwise known as stay-at-home moms), everyone wants to save money.
With the cost of gas, childcare and food costs always rising, as well as children who always seem to be outgrowing their shoes and clothes, finding some extra money in the budget would be great for most moms.
To help add a little more cash to the monthly budget, here are five easy ways moms everywhere can easily save some dough:
1. Barter with friends and neighbors.
Moms often have a variety of skills such as cooking, hair braiding, sewing, or even babysitting that could help another mom. And a community of moms could create a network of these type of services they can do for each other. Giving some of one's time and talent could get reap some needed services for free.
2. Seek out entertainment and resources at the library.
Local libraries are not just for checking out books anymore. They may offer free story time, movie rentals, and supervised programs when children are out of school. Libraries can be a great place to facilitate a love for books and learning for both kids and adults ... all for free.
3. Take advantage of free childcare.
A lot of gym memberships include free or very affordable childcare. For example, the Metro Atlanta YMCA offers up to eight hours of free childcare each week while the parents are working out.
Some grocery stores, like Wegman’s in New Jersey and Bashas’ in Phoenix, let customers use an in-store childcare center while they grocery shop. Even most Ikea stores have a free supervised play area for potty-trained children.
4. Pack a lunch when out and about for the day.
Whether one is running errands or spending the day at the zoo, be sure to bring a lunch for the kids (and yourself) to eat. Save the money (and the calories) and eat food from home.
5. Schedule "at home" date nights.
Babysitters, dinner, movies, and other expenses can add up quickly, so have an "at home" date night. Feed the kids dinner and put them to bed early. (Try skipping naps that day for an easier bedtime, especially if the kids are young.) Then, eat a leisurely “adults only" dinner, watch a DVD and just be together.
Families do not always have to sacrifice to live within the family budget. The key to saving money is getting creative and looking for alternatives to do the things moms want and need to do for and with their families.
Sources:
Bankrate.com. Web. "4 places where moms can save money". http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/4-places-where-moms-save-money-3.aspx
Savingmomsmoney.com. Web. Published April 20, 2012. "Use your local library to save money".
http://www.savingmomsmoney.com/2009/09/use-your-local-library-to-save-money.html
Edited by Jody Smith