Having kids is wonderful (if that’s what you want). I am biased, though. I’m the mother of two young children (ages 5 and 1), who are hilarious, obnoxious, ridiculous, perfect little beings. One of the things people will always (and truthfully) tell you is — kids are expensive. And, I get that. … [Read more...] about How to be a minimalist parent with maximum happiness — for everyone
Kids
101 easy and cheap Halloween costume ideas for 2022
Halloween will be here before you know it. There's no need to settle for the high-priced, mass-produced, store-bought costumes (although we have seen some clever and cute ones on Amazon). We've gathered up easy and inexpensive homemade Halloween costume ideas for you here. DIY your Halloween … [Read more...] about 101 easy and cheap Halloween costume ideas for 2022
Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween is one of those times of year in which we can all revert to being kids. We dress up and enjoy a little extra candy and parties. Planning a Halloween party can be so much fun, and it's even more fun when you throw a Halloween party on the cheap. Choose one of these Halloween party ideas … [Read more...] about Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween movie night ideas
Halloween is slowly creeping up on us, but the day isn’t all about trick-or-treating. It’s also about watching some great Halloween movies that make us laugh with the kids or keep us up all night hiding in horror under the covers. Here's what's ahead: Scary (or fun) Halloween … [Read more...] about Halloween movie night ideas
A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
With more than 41 million potential trick-or-treaters knocking on 120 million doors, Halloween can become one of our most expensive holidays. But even if you don't want to spend a lot, there is no need to turn off the lights and pretend you aren’t home or try to persuade your kids that sweets are … [Read more...] about A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
Enjoy free admission to hundreds of museums across U.S. Sept. 17
Museums are the perfect destination for a relaxing, fun and informative day with friends and family. It's even better when you don't have to open your wallet — just your mind and curiosity. Whether you're at home or traveling, explore and experience hundreds of museums and cultural … [Read more...] about Enjoy free admission to hundreds of museums across U.S. Sept. 17
Hiking with kids: How to have family fun outdoors
The weather is beautiful, and you want to get outdoors with your family, away from TV and video games. Lace up those walking shoes and take the kids on a hike. Look for a big park, a nature preserve or a designated open space with trails that's a short drive from home and hit the road. Wait, you … [Read more...] about Hiking with kids: How to have family fun outdoors
7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
This post is by Jennifer Saranow Schultz at Hint Mama. The cost of little kids’ activity classes can quickly add up. Just one semester of music class can run more than $200. Add in swimming, gymnastics, Gymboree, dance, sports and art classes and you could be renting a small … [Read more...] about 7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
6 ways to save on kids’ back-to-school clothes
Most parents do not relish back-to-school clothes shopping. The crowds and the cost create a less-than-enjoyable experience. I can’t fix the crowds, but I can help with the cost. Last year, I outfitted my two kids for the school year for less than $100 each. Considering many items … [Read more...] about 6 ways to save on kids’ back-to-school clothes
Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
As schools try to balance their budgets while keeping up with always-increasing expenses, they are looking more to families and parent-teacher organizations to help with school supplies, field trips and other programs. Doing a little can sometimes go a long way. Below are some funding ideas that you … [Read more...] about Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
Save on back-to-school shots, sports exams
The kids soon head back to school and you’ve already shelled out money for new clothes and school supplies. Now you need to come up with more cash for sports physicals and back-to-school vaccinations. Here are some tips that might help you save on those expenses. Visit your primary care … [Read more...] about Save on back-to-school shots, sports exams
Healthy school lunches kids won’t toss in the trash
If your child regularly brings their lunch to school, you've faced the "what to pack" dilemma. You want to pack something nutritious, but you also need to be sure your kids will eat it. A thrown-out lunch does nothing for your child's health or your wallet; it's basically cash in the … [Read more...] about Healthy school lunches kids won’t toss in the trash
16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
The bargainista part of me just loves all those end-of-season sales. I get bargain-priced holiday wrap, Halloween decorations and more. Summer's end brings similar deals — you know what I mean if you've ever walked through the pool/outdoor area of any Target, Walmart, Christmas Tree Shop, … [Read more...] about 16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
Back to school: Is it time for your student to have a phone?
With a son going into fifth grade, I’m one of the few holdouts among the class parents who hasn’t given into peer pressure and gotten my child a smartphone. I have my reasons, most notably among them, he hasn’t asked for one ... yet. Truth be told, I also don’t think he’s ready for the … [Read more...] about Back to school: Is it time for your student to have a phone?
10 tips to organize back-to-school life
When the kids go back to school, life should get easier, right? Nope. It gets way more complicated. You need to get the kids to school and back (if they don’t ride the bus). You need to get them to soccer, swim or ballet practice. They need lunches and after-school snacks. They have homework. And … [Read more...] about 10 tips to organize back-to-school life