How To Keep Child-Rearing Costs Down

Raising children is a wonderful adventure, but also an expensive one.  According to the latest report released by the Department of Agriculture, in 2008 it would cost a typical middle income family $221,190 to raise a child birth through 18.   This includes food, clothing, and shelter.  The average American family has approximately 2 children. Of course children are priceless, but there are ways to save on the cost of raising them.
 
The Kids Gotta Eat
If you have babies or toddlers, get them into the habit of eating healthy home cooked meals. Avoid fast food restaurants and pack snacks for the road.  As your child matures, he will be used to eating at home.  Eating out will be a once in a while treat.  Many restaurants have “Kids eat free” specials until the age of twelve.  Plan for your food budget to skyrocket during the teen years.  Buy in bulk, keep plenty of healthy, easy to prepare snacks around, stick to simple quick dinners and be ready to have a constant steam of hungry teens raiding the fridge.  
 
Dress (Cheaply) For Success
The rate in which babies and toddlers grow it does not make sense to spend much money on clothes.  There are thrift shops aimed toward this age group. Garage sales are another resource for baby clothes. School age children might start to notice trends, but there are some hip resale shops for this group too.  Sears offers a program called Kidvantage.  If the kid clothing or shoes you purchase from Sears wears out before your child outgrows it, they will replace the item for free.  Most teens are style conscious.  Helping them understand the value of money may help curb their spending requests.  Set a clothing budget for them.  Steer them toward one or two brand name items and then go basic on the rest.   Research internet promotional codes.  Many online retailers offer hidden deep discounts with these codes. 

Let Me Entertain You
 For babies and toddlers, simple toys that you might already have around the house like balls and cups will do.  You are their biggest play mate at this point.  As the child gets older, check out garage sales, toy swaps, and thrift shops.  With some disinfecting, and careful inspection these toys and games can be as good as new.  Teens are social; invite their friends over for a movie you picked up for $1 at Redbox.  Teach your teen how to earn and save money to buy what they want. 

Not About the Money
Setting an example for their children is one of the most important things parents can do.  As they see you setting financial goals and spending limits they will follow your lead.  Raising children does cost money, but with some creativity, education and willingness to bargain hunt you can reduce the expenses and enjoy the quick years of raising children.