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6 Changes Your Family Can Make to Save Money at Home

February 27, 2023 | Leave a Comment

If you want to save money for your family, it’s essential to take stock of your finances and assess where you can make some changes. Here are some tips to help you save money and make changes for your family. These tips can help you start saving more money, and eventually, have a better financial future.

1. Think About Changes to Your Hobbies

Metallic anchors expand at about three times the rate of alumino-silicate refractories. Metallic anchors and other materials expand at different rates when heated, so it is important to consider the type of materials in your hobbies. This can help you save money by making sure you’re not purchasing supplies or materials that are not necessary for your hobbies. Consider buying in bulk when you can to save even more money. You can also encourage your family to partake in cheaper hobbies, like gardening, hiking, or crafting.

2. Invest in Affordable Internet

By 2023, 5G speeds will be 13 times higher than the average mobile connection. Consider investing in affordable wifi for your family, as it can help you save money by reducing the costs of getting out of the house to access the internet. Additionally, many providers are offering discounts and promotions on their services, so it’s worth taking the time to research which one will provide you with the best deal. This can be a great way to save money and get better internet access for your family.

3. Find Ways to Reduce Your Energy Usage

To get the most optimal lawn watering, it’ll take about an hour or 90 minutes. Reducing your energy and water usage is a great way to save money. Consider ways you can reduce the amount of energy you are using, such as investing in LED lightbulbs and switching off appliances that are not being used. Additionally, try to find ways to reduce water consumption by installing low-flow showerheads and toilets or investing in smart irrigation systems. These small changes can make a big difference in your energy and water bills.

4. Shop Around for the Better Deal

When it comes to buying groceries or household items, shopping around can help you save money. Compare prices at different stores, as well as online, to find the best deal. You may also want to consider purchasing items in bulk when possible, as this can often result in discounts. Additionally, check out local farmers’ markets for fresh produce that is cheaper than what’s available at supermarkets. There are many ways to save money on groceries and other household items if you know how to shop around for a better deal.

5. Make Meals at Home

Your family should also look at ways to make more meals at home. This can help you save money on restaurant bills, as well as the cost of takeout. Not only will making your own food be cheaper, but it can also be healthier and more nutritious than processed meals or fast-food options. Consider meal prepping in advance to save time and money throughout the week. You can also check out recipes online that are budget friendly or use ingredients you already have in your pantry.

6. Budget Weekly

Your family should also consider creating a weekly budget. This will help you keep track of spending and encourage everyone to stick to their goals. Take the time each week to review your finances and see where money is being spent or saved. Encourage everyone in the family to contribute to their respective budgets, as this can be a great way for everyone to stay on top of their finances. By making these small changes, your family can save money and eventually have a better financial future together. With dedication and commitment to your budget, you can achieve financial freedom and enjoy more stability in your lives.

These are just a few tips to help you start saving money for your family and make changes that will benefit you financially long term. With a bit of effort, research, and planning, your family can start building a better financial future today.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

4 Strategies to Lower the Insurance Premium for a Teen Driver

February 16, 2023 | Leave a Comment

Lower the Insurance Premium for a Teen Driver

Our oldest is 18.5 years old, and he finally decided to drive. We’re thankful he didn’t want to earlier because he’s in the highest risk category to cover, according to our insurance—he’s male, under 25, and has been driving less than three years. However, we’re using strategies to lower the insurance premium for a teen driver. We’re also implementing strategies to protect our finances while he’s on our insurance policy.

4 Strategies to Lower the Insurance Premium for a Teen Driver

Even though he’s in the highest-risk category for coverage, we can take advantage of several discounts to lower his premium.

We Have a Multi-Line Discount

We already have our two vehicles and home insured by the same insurance company. Our son will join and benefit from our multi-line discount.

He’ll Drive Our Oldest Vehicle

Generally, the newer a vehicle, the more expensive it is to insure. Since he’s a teen driver with a higher risk of having an accident than us, we’re giving him our oldest vehicle to drive—a 2004 minivan. Having him as the primary driver on the oldest car gives him a lower insurance premium than if he were driving a newer vehicle.

He’ll Get a Good Student Discount

Because he is maintaining higher than a B average in college, he will receive a good student discount.

He’ll Use the Drive Safe and Save App

In addition, he’ll use the Drive Safe and Save app. While this app can’t make his premium increase if he’s a bad driver, it can help him realize a significant discount if he’s a good driver. My husband and I already use this app and have seen our premiums drop by more than 20 percent.

A Future Discount

While he doesn’t currently qualify, he’ll get a safe driver discount if he drives for three years without a ticket or an accident. We’re hoping he will get this discount eventually, but with teen drivers, there is a sharp learning curve, so he may not.

An Additional Step We’re Taking to Protect Ourselves

Lower the insurance premium for a teen driver

The least financially risky way to insure him is to have him own his car and pay for his auto insurance policy. However, that will more than double (close to triple) the amount he will need to pay for car insurance.

Instead, we’re adding him to our policy, but we’re also adding an umbrella policy to our line of insurance. So then, if our son causes an accident that results in more money than his auto insurance covers, our umbrella policy will kick in. This will protect us because when he’s under our insurance, the victim can come after our assets if our son causes an accident.

Final Thoughts

After our son, we have two more children who we’ll add to our insurance policy when they learn to drive. So, we’ll continue to utilize these strategies to lower the insurance premiums for a teen driver and to protect our assets with umbrella insurance. While teen drivers raise our insurance premiums, this season of life will only last for the next six to eight years until our teens are on their own and paying for their expenses.

Read More

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7 Reasons You Shouldn’t Buy Your Kid a Car

Should You Get Your Teen a Debit Card?

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Money and Finances Tagged With: car insurance, teen driver

4 Lifestyle Changes Parents Can Make to Save Money

February 13, 2023 | Leave a Comment

As a parent, you know too well how fast money can get spent on your family if you’re not careful. This makes it a good idea for you to live a lifestyle that enables you to save money, since tomorrow isn’t promised. Making some lifestyle changes may sound like a major sacrifice, but when you think about the benefits that doing so can offer you, then it all becomes worth it. Here are four of these lifestyle changes that you may want to make in order to have more to keep aside for a rainy day.

1. Drive a Cheaper Car

When you have a family, a car becomes more than a luxury. It’s a necessity that makes life easier in different ways, and so you should treat it as such. To this end, get a cheaper car that will have good safety ratings and amazing fuel efficiency. It could cost you less in terms of insurance premiums if it’s not a high-end car that has special requirements. With nearly 1.4 billion vehicles registered in the United States alone, it’s clear that many people understand the convenience that they can get from having a car. Keep these benefits in mind if you need to buy a car and ensure that it meets your needs sufficiently without having to go above and beyond.

2. Maintain Your Home

A well-maintained home may have a lower likelihood of having issues that will cost a lot of money to fix. This means that it’s a good idea to maintain your home regularly and you may be able to avoid massive expenses in the future. While you’ll generally need to make home improvements every once in a while to keep your home in stellar condition, you need to do it the smart way. This is because not all home improvements are created equal. Some have better returns than others and so you can benefit from working well on those that stand to pay back for themselves well. Take the roof, for example, which generally has a great return on investment. If you install a new asphalt shingle roof, you can get a return on investment of roughly 62%.

3. Take Care of Your Health

You may have heard that your health is one of your biggest sources of wealth, and this is true if you take good care of it. Healthcare costs are spiraling upwards and so it’s clear that prevention is going to be a lot better than cure in this case. With this in mind, eat healthier meals and ensure that everyone is getting enough and quality sleep. This will help improve both physical and mental health and you’ll see the benefits of these as the years go by. Don’t forget to take good care of your teeth and gums, with adults today accounting for one out of every five orthodontic patients. Visit your dentist regularly and follow their advice so you can keep the chances of developing oral health issues low.

4. Make Your Home Energy-Efficient

Last but not least, you should look for ways to make your home more energy-efficient. This could help you make some savings while leaving a smaller carbon footprint. With this tip, you stand to gain and also make your home greener. One of the easiest methods of making your home more energy-efficient is switching your bulbs to LED bulbs. These need less energy to run and also emit less heat. As a plus, they also last for a long time before they need to be replaced and so you won’t have to go to the shop multiple times for replacements.

These lifestyle changes can help parents save money while raising their family in the best possible way. Consider making them and you can get a good chance of enjoying the benefits over time. Stay consistent so that you can see your hard work pay off and leave you physically, mentally, and financially healthy.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

Tips for Baby Proofing on a Budget

February 6, 2023 | Leave a Comment

If a baby is on the horizon for you and your family, you have some work to do. Babyproofing your home will not only help keep your baby safe, but it will also help you to hang on to your sanity. A baby not only changes the family composition, but this new stage of life also changes how you live in your home. According to Home Advisor, babyproofing your home can cost up to $1300. Luckily, these tips will help you save on costs while keeping your new baby safe.

Start Early

Family life can get hectic. Don’t wait until the baby is on the go to babyproof your home. Start adding babyproof gear to your home during pregnancy. Time will move quickly, and before you know it, months will have gotten away from you. Of course, it is also much more budget-friendly to take a slow and steady pace to babyproofing instead of doing it all at once.

According to HouseFresh, we typically spend about 90% of our time indoors. Making the indoors a safe place for your baby is essential. Start today so you and your family can pace yourselves and ready the house for the baby.

Remove These Things From the Crib

We all enjoy seeing babies snuggled under blankets in their cribs, surrounded by their loving families gazing down upon them. It’s a great photo op, but it is not safe. Remove all stuffed animals, toys, bumpers, and blankets from the crib. With simple swaddles and sleep sacks, your baby will sleep safely and comfortably.

Cover Electrical Outlets

Before you know it, your baby will be crawling. Uncovered outlets are an open invitation for trouble. If you can’t afford the plastic outlet covers, electrical tape covering the outlets will do. As long as the baby can’t poke things into the outlet, aesthetics take a back seat. According to Electrical Safety First, your wiring should be tested every ten years, so if you have the funds, consider calling an electrician. Above all else, cover those outlets.

Block Stairs, Doors, and Windows

Babies turn into toddlers very quickly, and it is important to protect them from themselves. According to the American Pediatric Association, most toddlers are ready to use stairs at around a year and a half. Of course, you must ensure that there are safety measures in place when it comes to stairs.

You may have to spend money on a baby gate to mount at the top of the stairs to ensure your baby doesn’t come tumbling down. If the budget is tight, you can build a gate by creating a frame out of wood and adding some chicken wire or screening.

Pool noodles can ensure little fingers don’t get stuck in doors. Cut the pool noodles into sections and attach them to the lip of the door. A screen mesh can be placed over the lower section of accessible windows to reduce fall risks.

Install Cabinet Locks

A wide range of cabinet locks on the market will help secure your cabinets and keep your baby safe. If your family doesn’t have the budget to invest in cabinet locks, you already have things around your home that you can use to secure your cabinets.

Heavy-duty rubber bands can work on side-by-side cabinets by stringing the rubber bands through the pulls. On single cabinets, strips of Velcro are an easy solution. The aesthetics may not be what you are after, but these solutions will keep the cabinets closed securely so the baby cannot access dangerous items.

Disinfect Toys and Other Items

Babies love to put everything in their mouths, including toys. You can help to keep your baby safe by disinfecting their toys regularly. You don’t have to invest in special over-the-counter cleansers; you can pop them in the dishwasher and set the dishwasher to sanitize. If you don’t have a dishwasher, fill the sink with hot water and a capful of bleach and let the toys soak.

Babyproofing your home is important in introducing a new baby into the family, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to do it. Follow these tips to babyproof your home on a budget.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

February 2, 2023 | Leave a Comment

Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

My husband and I have lived in three different states. When we lived in Chicago, we chose a working-class neighborhood with bad schools. That was the only area where we could afford rent. (Buying a house was out of the question because of the high property taxes and our relatively low income.) When we lived in Arizona, we chose a good neighborhood with a meh school district. Finally, now that we live in New York, we live in a lovely community with a good school district. Sometimes when you’re house shopping, you find a nice house in a lousy school district within a good neighborhood. Should the quality of the school district be a deal breaker? The answer is, it depends.

Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

Of course, if the house is in a bad school district and neighborhood, you likely should pass. (Remember, location is everything when buying a home.) However, if the neighborhood is safe and sound, you have options.

Can Your Kids Go to School Out-of-District?

Some areas of the country allow a certain number of children to go to school out-of-district. If this is the case where you are, and there are good schools nearby, consider this option. You will avoid your neighborhood school that is less than desirable. You get a nice house, and your kids attend a good school. The only drawback is that you will likely need to drive them, and their commute to school will be longer than if they went to school locally.

Is Private School an Option?

When we lived in the Chicago suburbs, we had an academically solid private school within walking distance. However, we couldn’t afford the full tuition. Luckily, we applied for financial aid and received a significant tuition cut. Our child attended that school for three years.

Even if you think you can’t afford private school, you may find that with financial aid, it becomes an option.

Could You Homeschool?

Should You Buy a Home in a Bad School District

Another option is to homeschool. If you choose this route, it doesn’t matter what neighborhood you live in. When we moved to Arizona, we had been homeschooling our three children for one year. Because we didn’t have to consider the schools, we could find a fixer-upper in a nice neighborhood with a not-so-great school district. When we moved eight years later, our house sold for over asking to a couple in their 50s who also didn’t care about the school district.

If, instead, we had considered the school district, we would have had to buy a house in a neighborhood that was outside our price range. We would have struggled financially to make a house payment in that neighborhood. Homeschooling offers you incredible freedom.

Final Thoughts

When house hunting, remember location is everything. If you find a good house in a nice neighborhood with a bad school district, don’t automatically rule that house out. You have options for your children’s education that don’t require you to live in the best school district in the area.

Read More

Learning Through Games: 5 Best Educational Gift Ideas for Kids

Is It Child Approved? The Best Home Buying Checklist When You’re House Hunting with Kids

Yaaa, We Sold Our House. . .We Hope

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Home and Living Tagged With: education, home ownership

The Benefits of 1000 Hours Outside

January 19, 2023 | Leave a Comment

Benefits of 1000 Hours Outside

I have heard of the 1000 Hours Outside movement for the last few years, but I never tried it because we lived in Arizona, where it was too hot most of the year to spend much time outdoors. Now, we’ve moved to a more temperate climate, so in 2023, we’re joining the movement. There are many benefits of the 1000 hours outside challenge that I’ve already seen for our family and expect to increase as we get further into the year.

The Benefits of 1000 Hours Outside

These are some of the benefits I’ve seen so far:

More Family Time

My husband works a lot, but he enjoys spending time outdoors. So, he joins us whenever we head out for an outdoor adventure. Likewise, the girls are teens and don’t like to do as much together, but they, too, join in for outdoor activities.

More Frugal Entertainment

We’ve found immersing ourselves in nature is a frugal endeavor. Recently, we took a road trip to a location 70 miles from our home. First, we walked around some college campuses that our kids wanted to see. Then, we went to a nearby cemetery where we found the graves of Frederick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony. We spent several hours outdoors exploring; the only cost was the gas to get to the city.

Better Physical Fitness

Since we started this challenge, we’ve been more active. The girls will take two-mile walks with me to rack up more outdoor time. In addition, we’ve resumed hiking as a family, something we haven’t done for years.

Better Behavior

When our kids were younger, I noticed a direct correlation between their time on devices and challenging behavior. They were grumpier and more aggressive as they spent more time on electronics. They’re older now, so the behavior challenges are more nuanced. However, I notice that they seem more peaceful and relaxed when they spend time outdoors.

Less Reliance on Technology

Benefits of 1000 hours outside

When kids get bored, they turn to electronics. If they’re outdoors doing activities, they don’t have electronics to turn to. Most kids today (and adults!) rely too heavily on electronics. Stopping this behavior cold turkey is difficult, if not impossible in our society. However, you can diminish the time you and your kids spend on electronics by replacing that time with something better, like time outdoors.

I wish we had started the 1000 Hours Outside challenge when my kids were toddlers. They would have grown up knowing so much more about nature. They would have found being outdoors a natural way to live. However, it’s never too late, which is why we’re embarking on the challenge now, while we still have time.

Final Thoughts

The earlier you start immersing your kids in the outdoors, the better. However, your kids are never too old to reap the benefits of 1000 Hours Outside challenge. Our kids are 12 and 14, and they’re still benefiting. So, what are you waiting for? Put on your jacket or sunscreen, depending on the weather, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Read More

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A Frugal Life: How to Drastically Cut Expenses and Improve Your Finances

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Family Time, Parenting Blog at KidsAintCheap Tagged With: 1000 hours outdoors, Activities For Family, frugal and fun

3 Ways Penny Pinching Can Cost Parents Money

January 16, 2023 | Leave a Comment

Penny pinching can be a good way to save money and make ends meet, but it can also cost parents money in the long run if they’re not careful. Here are three ways that trying to save a few pennies can end up costing parents more money in the end.

Skimping on Window Treatments

According to the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC), old windows can account for 25% of a home’s annual heating and cooling costs. This means that if you’re trying to save money by not replacing old windows or investing in window treatments like blinds or curtains, you could be missing out on significant energy savings. Not only will this cost you more money on your energy bills, but it can also have a negative impact on the environment.

Investing in energy-efficient windows and window treatments can also make your home more comfortable and improve its overall value. New windows can help regulate the temperature in your home and reduce drafts, making it more comfortable to live in. They can also reduce outside noise and improve the overall appearance of your home. While replacing old windows or investing in window treatments may seem like a costly upfront expense, it can pay off in the long run by reducing your energy bills and increasing the value of your home. It’s important to carefully consider the long-term benefits when deciding whether to invest in new windows or window treatments.

Neglecting Dental Care

It’s easy to forget about dental care when you’re trying to save money, but this can be a costly mistake. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 20% of children aged 5 to 11 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth. If you’re not taking your child to the dentist regularly or not covering the cost of necessary treatments, it can lead to more serious dental problems down the road that will cost even more to fix.

Furthermore, neglecting dental care can have serious consequences for your child’s overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections and other health problems, which can require costly medical treatments. In addition, untreated dental issues can cause your child discomfort and pain, which can affect their ability to eat, sleep, and concentrate. In the long run, investing in regular dental checkups and treatments can save you money by preventing more serious and expensive problems from occurring. It’s important to prioritize your child’s dental care and make it a regular part of their healthcare routine.

Spending Too Much Time and Money on Parking

Drivers in the U.S. spend an average of 17 hours per year hunting for parking spots, which adds up to an estimated $345 per driver in wasted time, fuel, and emissions. If you’re constantly trying to find the cheapest or closest parking spot, you could be spending more time and money on it than you realize. Instead, consider paying for a monthly parking pass or using a carpooling or ride-sharing service to save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.

In addition to the financial cost of constantly searching for parking, it can also be frustrating and stressful. By paying for a monthly parking pass or using a carpooling or ride-sharing service, you can save yourself the hassle of finding a parking spot and reduce the amount of time you spend on the road. This can also help you save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint, which is good for both your wallet and the environment. While it may seem like a small change, choosing a more efficient and environmentally-friendly transportation option can have a significant impact over time.

It’s important for parents to find a balance between saving money and investing in their family and their long-term well-being. While it’s natural to want to save as much money as possible, it’s important to remember that spending a little more upfront can occasionally save you money in the long run.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

Easy Ways Parents Can Save Money Without Giving Up Comfort

January 5, 2023 | Leave a Comment

As a parent, it’s natural to want to provide the best for your family. But let’s face it, raising children can be expensive. Between childcare, education, and everyday expenses, it’s no wonder that many parents feel like they’re constantly struggling to make ends meet. It is, however, possible to save money without sacrificing comfort. Here are a few easy ways that parents can trim their budgets without feeling like they’re missing out.

Start a Home Business

Statistics show that up to 70% of all business partnerships fail, but starting a business on your own can be a great way to bring in extra income without the risk of a failed partnership. And with the rise of the gig economy, it’s easier than ever to find work that fits your schedule and interests. Whether you’re a skilled craftsman or a social media maven, there’s likely a demand for your skills. Consider starting a home-based business doing something you love, whether it’s selling handmade crafts, offering consulting services, or even just doing odd jobs for neighbors.

Consider DIY for Home Repairs

If you’re handy around the house, you can save a lot of money by doing your own repairs. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet or painting a room, the cost of hiring a professional can quickly add up. By tackling these projects yourself, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars. And if you’re not particularly skilled in home repairs, consider taking a class or two to learn. Many community centers and hardware stores offer classes on basic home repairs, and with a little knowledge and some practice, you can start tackling those projects yourself.

Shop Around for Healthcare Costs

About 25% to 50% of kids require orthodontics at some point, and the cost of braces can be astronomical. But there are ways to save on healthcare costs without sacrificing quality. One option is to shop around for the best prices. Don’t be afraid to get quotes from multiple providers, and consider negotiating for a better rate. You can also ask about payment plans or financing options, which can make the cost more manageable.

Get Creative With Transportation

Transportation can be a big expense, especially if you have a long commute or multiple cars. However, there are ways to save on transportation costs without giving up the convenience of a personal vehicle. One option is to carpool with coworkers or neighbors. Not only can this save you money on gas and wear and tear on your vehicle, but it can also be a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.

You can also consider alternative modes of transportation, like biking or taking public transportation. While these options may not work for everyone, they can be a great way to save money if you live in a city or have a shorter commute. Another way to save on transportation costs is to be strategic about the type of vehicle you drive. Smaller, more fuel-efficient cars can save you a lot of money on gas, and buying a used car rather than a new one can also save you thousands of dollars upfront.

Don’t Forget About Insurance

Insurance is an important way to protect your family and your assets, but it can also be a significant expense. To save money on insurance, shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. You may also be able to save by bundling your insurance policies, or by raising your deductible. It’s also important to regularly review your insurance coverage to make sure you have the right amount and type of coverage for your needs. If you have a mortgage, for example, your lender may require you to carry a certain amount of home insurance. But once your mortgage is paid off, you may be able to reduce your coverage and save on premiums.

Replace Your Roof Before It’s Too Late

The roof is an important part of your home, but it’s often overlooked when it comes to maintenance. Asphalt shingle roofs usually last around 15-30 years, depending on the climate and other factors. If your roof is getting close to the end of its life, it’s a good idea to start thinking about replacing it. While a new roof can be a significant expense, it’s much cheaper to replace it before it starts leaking or causing other damage. A new roof can also add value to your home and make it more energy efficient, which can save you money in the long run.

Overall, there are many ways you can save money. If you’re a parent, keep in mind these facts if you’re looking over your finances. You’d be amazed at how much you can save.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

6 Frugal Christmas Break Activities

December 22, 2022 | Leave a Comment

6 Frugal Christmas Break Activities

Your kids are likely out of school on winter vacation, and you have two weeks to do what you will as a family before school starts again. For many families, this is the time to leave and see family or go somewhere warm to beat the winter weather. However, this year, many families are struggling with inflation and the increased costs of daily necessities like gas and groceries. So, if your budget is too tight this year to travel, don’t despair. Instead, utilize these 6 frugal Christmas break activities to have a fun vacation with your kids, even if you are staying home.

6 Frugal Christmas Break Activities

With a bit of creativity, you and the kids can have an enjoyable winter break without spending much money.

Movie Marathon

Who doesn’t love movies? Get the kids together to decide what films you’d like to watch. Then, snuggle in for a movie marathon. Make the day more festive with hot chocolate and popcorn.

If your kids are young, you may only want to watch one movie, but if they’re older, why not watch two or three?

Sledding

This winter has already produced an abundance of snow. If you have snow on the ground, head to the local neighborhood sledding area and have a few hours of fun sledding. Even though you’re the parent, you don’t have to miss out on the fun. Your kids will enjoy the experience more if you, too, head down the hill on a sled.

Local Museums

Many local libraries offer museum passes. You can check these out from the library and then go to a local museum for free. If you have access to these library passes, going to a museum can be a fun way to pass the day.

Snow Ice Cream

6 Frugal Christmas Break Activities

One of my favorite childhood activities was making snow ice cream. So, if you live in an area with snow, have the kids scoop some up and make this delicious, novel winter treat. They’ll beg you to make it every time it snows!

Volunteer

If your kids are ten or older, you can take them somewhere to volunteer as long as you volunteer with them. For example, my daughters and I are cat lovers, so we’ve been volunteering at our local no-kill cat shelter. Our tasks have ranged from cleaning the cat litter and changing the cats’ water to helping with office tasks. As a bonus, we hang out with the cats when we finish.

Giving back is a great thing to do during the holiday season and helps teach kids that the world is bigger than them and that others are in need.

Decorate a Gingerbread House

When my kids were little, we started the tradition of decorating gingerbread houses AFTER Christmas when I could snag some clearance kits for 50 percent or more off. Who says you have to decorate them before Christmas?

Final Thoughts

Traveling during winter break is fun, but sometimes that can’t happen yearly. If you need or want a simpler vacation this year, consider doing some of these frugal Christmas break activities. You and the kids will have fun, and you’ll save money.

Read More

What to Do When You’re Overspending at Christmas

Favorite Family Christmas Traditions Modernized

How to Pay for Vacations and Holidays without Debt

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Holidays Tagged With: Christmas vacation, frugal fun, school break

4 Financial Reasons to Teach Your Kids About Car Maintenance Early

December 1, 2022 | Leave a Comment

As the children in your family begin learning how to drive, it is your responsibility to teach them about car maintenance. Whether they own their own car or borrow yours, teaching them how to maintain a car will have financial benefits that will follow them into adulthood. There are many practical financial reasons why you should teach your children about car maintenance.

1. They Can Buy a Cheaper Car

Buying a used car is a great way to get a high-quality vehicle without paying a lot of money. However, this comes with the warning that you may have to do extra repairs or maintenance on your used car since it is a little older. If you don’t know what you’re doing, these repairs could cancel out the savings from buying used. If your children want a used car, they need to know how to take care of it. Having the ability to buy used cars will open them up to many more opportunities for cars. They may want something more exciting, like a roadster. Some roadsters weigh up to 3,400 pounds, but cobras weigh much less. If your family wants something lighter, they can save money by knowing how to take care of it.

2. They’ll Stay Safe on the Road

It is essential that your child knows how to stay safe while they’re driving. They need to know how to take care of themselves and the people around them. After all, other cars are unpredictable. Drunk driving causes more than 17 thousand deaths each year and there are all kinds of other dangers to consider as well. If you teach your child regular maintenance, they can keep their car running well, avoiding many types of potential accidents. They’ll also be able to take care of the situation if their car breaks down on the side of the road. On a financial level, staying safe on the road saves you money on both medical costs and car repairs in the future.

3. The Car Lasts Longer

The better you maintain your car, the longer it will run. This is the best way to keep your car on the road for a long time. You can’t avoid all accidents because it’s hard to predict what other drivers are doing. After all, the legal BAC limit in California is 0.08% and people still drive illegally at that point. But if you don’t take care of your car, you know that the mechanisms inside are going to stop working as well over time. This means you’ll have to buy a new car sooner than you otherwise would. You’ll end up spending a lot of money on this car, while you could have delayed the necessity of a new car by a long time. If your child wants to avoid spending extra money on their car, they need to know how to take care of the one they have.

4. It Needs Fewer Repairs

The more maintenance you do, the fewer repairs you’ll have to deal with. While repairs are inevitable, you can avoid a lot of the bigger expenses by taking care of smaller issues early. These bigger repairs can be extremely expensive and completely avoidable. If your child knows how to do basic car maintenance, they can keep the car running smoothly and catch small problems before they get out of hand.

Your family needs to know how to maintain their cars. Cars are an expensive investment and they will continue to cost you money throughout the years. However, regular maintenance can reduce these costs significantly. With the skills you teach them, your children can be frugal with cars while still reaping all the benefits they provide.

Filed Under: Money and Finances

Our Favorite Stocking Stuffers for Teens

November 24, 2022 | Leave a Comment

Favorite Stocking Stuffers for Teens

After you buy Christmas presents for your kids, you have one item left to tackle—the stockings. Unfortunately, I find stocking stuffers can be challenging to buy, and if you’re not careful, they can be more expensive than the gifts under the tree. Still, stockings are a nice bonus and one of my kids’ favorite parts of Christmas. Over the years, we’ve acquired several favorite stocking stuffers for teens.

A Hint for Affordable Stocking Stuffers

Every parent’s budget differs, but we’ve found that we prefer smaller stockings to stuff. For a few years, we had giant stockings, and filling them was expensive! So, we got rid of those stockings and picked smaller ones (luckily, while the kids were still little, so they didn’t notice). Now, we can fill the stockings more affordably, and they also overflow with gifts (since they’re smaller), which the kids get excited about.

Favorite Stocking Stuffers for Teens

We try to include both necessary and fun items in their stockings.

Fun Stocking Stuffers

Over the years, the kids have enjoyed these stocking stuffers:

Compact Games

We like to play games in our family, so their stockings often include a smaller game we can play as a family. Card games like Uno, Sushi Go, and Five Crowns have been hits.  We’ve also included dice games like Tenzi and Yahtzee to Go.

Lip Balm

My kids like flavored lip balms such as fruit flavored or Christmas flavors like candy cane, vanilla, or mint chocolate. Their favorite brand is Burt’s Bees.

Sweet Treats

Even though my teens now have money to buy their treats, they love getting candy in their stockings, especially milk chocolate bars. They also enjoy receiving hot chocolate packets so that they can enjoy hot chocolate on Christmas morning.

Gift Cards

The older teens get, the more they enjoy gift cards to buy their own items. My kids’ favorite gift cards are from Amazon, Starbucks, and local fast-food joints.

Art Supplies

My artist in the family enjoys receiving art supplies such as paints, paint brushes, watercolor pencils, colored pencils, and other art items.

More Practical Stocking Stuffers

Favorite Stocking Stuffers for Teens

In addition to the fun gifts, we also like to fill the stocking with some practical, necessary items.

Socks

Every year I give my kids some socks in their stockings. These bulk up the stockings, and everyone needs socks throughout the year.

Batteries

If the kids are getting any presents that require batteries, I put the batteries they need in their stockings. Then they can use the battery-operated gifts they received on Christmas day without making a separate trip to the store.

Final Thoughts

Christmas stockings in our family are not an afterthought. Instead, they’re a gift as important as the wrapped presents under the tree. These are our favorite stocking stuffers for teens, and our kids love receiving some variation of them each year.

Read More

What to Do When You Are Overspending at Christmas

Favorite Family Traditions Modernized

5 Ways to Buy Cheap Christmas Gifts for Your Kids

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Holidays Tagged With: Christmas, Gifts, gifts for teens, Holidays, stocking stuffers, teens

RV Living with Kids

November 10, 2022 | Leave a Comment

RV Living Full-Time

When my grandparents retired, they sold their house and began RV living full-time. They would travel year-round, but for about six weeks every summer, they would park their RV in our yard, which I loved. They loved the low cost and the freedom to go anywhere. However, though my grandma never complained, I know that she was sometimes frustrated by the lack of space. I think of the two of them whenever I read about the recent trend of RV living. Of course, this trend is not for everyone, but for certain families, RV living full-time with kids can offer incredible freedom.

How to Make RV Living Full-Time with Kids Successful

If you’re thinking of making the leap to RV living, you need to first lay the groundwork.

What to Do Before You Begin RV Living Full-Time

Before selling your house and buying an RV, ensure you’ll enjoy the lifestyle.

Rent or Borrow an RV

First, rent or borrow an RV and take the kids on an extended trip. You’ll see what it’s like to live in tight quarters as a family. The average American house is 2,200 square feet, but a 26-foot RV has only 230 square feet. So, you and your family need to get used to living in only 10 percent of the space you’re accustomed to. That can be a hard adjustment for many.

Don’t Sell Your House for the First Year

You may be tempted to sell your house to make money to buy the RV and travel, but if possible, try to hold onto your home for the first year you’re living in the RV. Even if you try out RV living for a few weeks, that’s not the same as living in an RV full-time. You may get a few months into RV living and decide it’s not for you. If that’s the case, you can always move back into your home with few repercussions. If you sell your home before moving to RV living full-time, you’ll have to start over if that lifestyle isn’t for you.

Suggestions for Smooth RV Living with Kids

If you try out RV living and decide you like it, there are steps you can take to adjust more quickly to the lifestyle.

Downsize

If you’re going to leave a 2,200 square foot house to move to a 230 square foot RV, you’ll need to downsize. . .a lot! Plan to get rid of 80 to 90 percent of your stuff.

Watch videos on minimalism and capsule wardrobes because that’s what you and the kids will need. If you don’t think you’ll live the RV lifestyle forever, put your things in storage. Otherwise, sell what you can and give the rest away.

Agree on Privacy Rules

There isn’t much room for privacy in an RV, so for your sake and the kids’, agree on rules from the beginning. For instance, if the bathroom door is closed, someone is in there, so don’t go in. (Leave it open the rest of the time.) Consider putting curtains around beds that aren’t in their own rooms. When someone is on their bed with the curtain closed, respect their privacy and leave them alone. This will be more important as your kids head into the tween and teen years.

Choose Child-Friendly Camping Sites

RV Living Full Time

Some campgrounds aren’t child friendly. When choosing campsites, find ones with playgrounds so the kids can play. It would be even better to find campsites near lakes and hiking trails so you can take the kids for a swim or a hike. Kids need time to get out their energy, especially if most of their time is spent in the RV.

Consider Homeschooling

When you begin your new lifestyle, you will need to look at school choices for kids. If your kids are in traditional brick-and-mortar school, you’ll need to make new arrangements. You have two options.

Homeschool

You could homeschool, which offers maximum convenience because you can homeschool while traveling. Even better, you can make your travels part of your homeschool by visiting historic attractions and studying the geography of the areas you travel to.

Online School

Another option is to have your children enroll in an online school. This is an excellent option if you plan to put your children back in traditional school eventually. (If you homeschool your kids and try to put them in conventional school later, you may run into resistance from the school district.)

The only drawback to online schooling while traveling is that you may struggle to get a reliable internet connection.

Have Regular Times to Come Back Home

When you hit the road to begin your new lifestyle, you will likely leave behind extended family and friends. To help your children handle possible homesickness, schedule time to return home regularly so your children can see their friends and maintain friendships.

In between regular visits, utilize Zoom to connect with hometown friends and family when you’re on the road.

Remember the Lessons You’re Teaching Your Kids

RV Travel Full-Time

RV living full-time can be stressful. However, remember that you’re teaching your kids amazing lessons by living this lifestyle. Because you have to downsize to live in an RV, your kids learn to become minimalists. Furthermore, you fill their lives with experiences, not stuff. How many kids can travel around the country as your kids do?

Your kids will see and do things that most Americans don’t get to. You can be in Florida one week and in Missouri the next. The choice is yours. In addition, between all the travel, you teach your children to be flexible and go with the flow.

Final Thoughts

RV living full-time with kids isn’t for the faint of heart. However, the rewards are rich. You give your children a chance to see the United States in ways few others get to. You are also more likely to grow closer as a family.

Read More

How to Travel with a Kid Who Isn’t a Great Traveler

4 Road Trip Tips When Traveling with Tweens

Best Travel Cribs for Twins

Melissa Batai
Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

Filed Under: Home and Living, Money and Finances Tagged With: RV living, Travel, Travel With Children, travel with toddlers

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