Can Families Be Happier and Healthier And Still Saving Money?

Published on: 12 September 2018 Last Updated on: 25 November 2021
Saving Money

According to the EPI (Economic Policy Institute), while we can budget for our future, the average cost to raise a child in California is $233,610. There are different ways of saving money. The cost of living seems to be ever-rising along with the price of gas and other necessities, but it doesn’t mean that we can’t still have fun as a family.

Simple budget benders can include things like shopping around for the best bargains online, signing up for cashback websites and finding other savings on the internet. Perhaps saving money can become a family affair and kids can join with parent’s efforts on saving a few bucks.

For example, since many children nowadays are more tech-savvy, the next time they’re in the market for a new electronic gadget, perhaps a laptop for school or a new smartphone, task them with finding the best deal online.

1.HOME ON THE RANGE:

Instead of ordering pizza from the expensive Italian joint down the street, why not make one at home and the whole family can join in. Most national grocery chains now carry inexpensive,  pre-made pizza dough and together with fresh vegetables and cheeses, whipping up a pie in our own kitchen is often cheaper than takeout or delivery. Plus the kids get the pride of creating and cooking their own pizza masterpiece. Saving The Money is an art and you cannot make things happen in one day.

2.FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT:

With things like Netflix, newer (or even older) movies can be had at a fraction of the cost of going to the theater. Make it fun for the kids and swap times when it’s the child’s choice to pick the movie or have a theme like Disney classics. Make healthy snacks at home and ditch the expensive, overly buttered popcorn and sugary sweet treats found at the cinema. Opt instead for air-popped corn and healthier granola, nuts and other lower fat finger foods.

3.ROAD TRIP CLOSER TO HOME:

Instead of traveling to an expensive theme park on the other side of the state or country, try checking out locations closer to home. Utilize a Google search for your city (or neighboring town) and input “top-ten destinations” and travel sites like Tripadvisor will return favorable results. Find parks, museums, historical sights and read their reviews to find locations that have picnic areas and other places where you can dine outdoors with your family. Again, bring your own menu of healthier menu choices, fresh fruits, and vegetables and skip the fast food fares.

4.TRY NEW THINGS:

Encourage your children to try new foods and activities that will make them happier and healthier. Instead of hanging around the house and playing video games, perhaps it would be more fun to go for a bike ride or hike along a nature trail. If the weather isn’t permissive, instead of watching cartoons, try the Animal Planet or tune into the History Channel.

TRY NEW THINGS

Instead of processed chicken fingers and ranch dressing, a staple for many kids nowadays, why not try a much healthier salmon steak with a creamy dill sauce. Rather than opening another box of macaroni and cheese, how about tossing a children’s chef salad where the kids can pick different ingredients like sunflower seeds, healthy lean meats, and fresh vegetables.

Often we can get into a rut and simply fall victim to unhealthy foods and activities that we’ve been accustomed to and forget about being more active and eating better. If the family that plays together, stays together, perhaps those who try new things can find activities that can better connect them and help them to bond in new ways.

Final Take Away

Hence, these are some of the facts that you need to take care of while you want to save money in all aspects. You have to understand the facts before drawing any kind of conclusion. You must not make your choices in grey while you want to increase your savings in the right direction. Work out the plans that can help you to achieve your goals in the best possible manner.

 

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Prepare Your Child For A Youth Conference

How To Prepare Your Child For A Youth Conference?

Youth conferences are essential since they provide them with a rare opportunity to discover, interact with others their age, and learn new things, and celebrate God. These events provide a stimulating setting for young minds to broaden their horizons, develop their capacities, and create enduring connections. Preparing your child for a youth conference as a parent or guardian may significantly influence their overall experience and progress during the gathering. Children's participation in a youth conference can change them because it exposes them to different viewpoints, cultures, and activities outside their regular routines. Here are a few ways to prepare your child for a youth conference: Reviewing The Conference Details It is crucial for parents to fully comprehend the specifics of an event before heading to a youth conference. Find out as much as possible about the event itself beforehand, including its subject/theme, schedule, and keynote speakers. Parents may have educated talks with their children about what to anticipate during the event by being aware of the agenda and discussion themes. Furthermore, parents can convey the conference's aim to their kids if they have explicit knowledge of its objectives. It's essential to go through how going to the conference may be a worthwhile educational experience and a chance for personal development, especially in faith. This way, they can create excitement and passion by matching the child's desires and goals with the conference's themes. Define Expectations Setting clear expectations is essential to preparing a kid for a youth conference. Parents should explain the purpose and underlying reasons for such a magnificent Christian gathering, and how it could affect their child's social and personal growth. Furthermore, parents may encourage their child's active participation during the conference, helping them find ways to help themselves and others while getting the most value out of the activities and speakers. This process will help the youngster feel important and motivated. Setting reasonable expectations for your child by explaining how they should behave and what they should do is key to this encouragement. They should have a good grasp of when they can laugh and play and when they need to listen and be respectful. The youngster has a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm due to this clarity since they know what to anticipate. Furthermore, parents should address any particular objectives they have set for their child for the youth conference. Setting goals helps the kid concentrate their efforts and focus on getting the most out of the conference, whether connecting with like-minded peers, honing public speaking abilities, or researching future career interests. Preparation And Packing Proper packing and planning are crucial for a child's seamless and enjoyable time at a youth conference. Parents can make a list of essentials to pack for the occasion, ensuring their child has all they need for a relaxing, pleasant stay.  Practical items like attire for conference activities, comfy shoes, toiletries, and essential medications should be on the list. Including the kid in the packing process might help them develop a feeling of independence and responsibility. Parents may assist their children in packing their belongings by offering recommendations that will be beneficial and making sure that they pack all necessary goods. This collaborative effort allows the kid to own their conference experience and instils a sense of readiness and independence. Parents and guardians should also urge their children to review the conference schedule in advance to get the most out of the conference experience. Children can decide the discussions and workshops they wish to attend by becoming familiar with the program and debate themes. By matching their interests with sessions relevant to their objectives, the child is better equipped to make the most out of their experience. Encourage Independence Even though there may be many other youths present at the conference, maybe those your child may befriend or already know, it’s important that they make their own voice heard and participate in activities and sessions they would enjoy rather than just following along with their friends. These exciting events are not just about studying the word and celebrating God, but also about building bonds and enjoying life. Encourage your child to manage their conference calendar to promote independence. Parents can assist their children in looking through the conference schedule and selecting the sessions and pursuits that match their interests and objectives; this will ensure they benefit most from their choices and have even better memories. Also, parents can talk to their children about safety precautions as the conference draws near to foster a feeling of consciousness and accountability. Your child can take more proactive actions if you remind them to stay in the allocated areas, adhere to conference rules, and ask for guidance from conference organizers when necessary. Develop Social Skills A child's participation at a youth conference, where contacts with peers, facilitators, and other participants are typical, depends on their developing skilled social skills. To prepare your children for valuable connections and interactions at the event, parents may play a critical role in helping them practice and improve these abilities. Playing out various social scenarios with the kids is an excellent technique to help them develop their social skills. Parents may take on different personas and discuss with their kids using acceptable body language, effective communication methods, and active listening. The youngster gains more confidence in starting and maintaining discussions with others owing to this participatory exercise. Parents may offer valuable advice on how to connect with strangers and establish friends in addition to role-playing.  These conferences are an excellent opportunity to make new friends, and they may feel more at ease in social situations if you encourage them to exhibit approachable and pleasant body language, such as keeping eye contact and smiling. The Bottom Line It may be a gratifying experience to help a child prepare for a youth conference since it can significantly influence their social and personal growth. A youngster with the right resources and encouragement may use the youth conference's possibilities for learning, adventure, and self-discovery. Additionals: Practical Ways To Help Your Elderly Parents 3 Ways Parents Can Safeguard their Household’s Online Safety Is it Possible for Single Individuals to Become Foster Parents?

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Fathers Day Gift Ideas

30+ Fathers Day Gift Ideas: It’s More Than Gifts 

Are you searching for some of the best Fathers Day gift ideas for this year? If yes, then you have reached the right place! As we all know, 18 June 2023 is Father’s Day. And that means there is very little time to pan something. And if you are still looking for ideas to get your daddy dearest something this year, then you have a friend in me! Keep reading this article till the end to learn about the best and most unique father’s day gift ideas that you can try this year! Fathers Day Gift Ideas: Thoughtful And Unique Ideas!   Father's Day is a special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating fathers and father figures. It is a time to show appreciation, love, and gratitude for the contributions and sacrifices that fathers make in the lives of their children and families. And if that is what you are trying to do and are looking for some of the best gift ideas for Father's Day this year, then you will find this blog to be of help. In this article, I have listed down the top 25 best gift ideas for Father’s day. So, without further ado, let us get right into it! 1. Personalized Engraved Watch   The first on the list of the best Fathers Day gift ideas is getting your daddy dearest a personalized watch. You can engrave a message, a specific date, or even a name on the watch, giving it a special meaning and personalized touch. 2. Portable Grill Set   Image Source: cdn.shopify.com If your father is into cooking and has a great knack for the outdoors, then getting him a portable grill set is the ideal gift this Father’s Day. make him know that you love what he loves, that you care for what he loves, that you respect his passion. And to be fair, this is a win-win situation if you like to eat what your dad cooks! 3. Bluetooth Speaker   The next thing that you can give your father on Fathers Day is a Bluetooth speaker. The world is changing. Technology is evolving at a very fast pace. So why not move ahead with it? Getting him a Bluetooth speaker will help him put on some music and stay groovy! 4. Leather Wallet   Now this one never gets old! Legend says that a man can never have too many wallets. Get your old man a great quality leather wallet. Make sure that all the things that he needs are able to fit inside the wallet, including his cards and all the extra thing that he likes to carry around. 5. Craft Beer Brewing Kit   Image Source: m.media-amazon.com Making beer at home is a popular hobby for many aged men who are in their 40’s. If your father is into beers, then it is a great idea to get him a craft beer brewing kit this year. There are several options available online, so check them out before it is time! 6. Smart Home Device   As I have already said, technology is evolving at a massive speed. Thus, to make it turn into your assistance, it is a great idea to get his house all smart! The best thing that you can do is to get him several smart home devices like Google Nest and Amazon Echo. 7. Fitness Tracker Or Smartwatch   Whether your papa is into fitness, or you are trying to get him into it to make him healthy, it is a good cause. So, why not try to make it even better with a fitness tracker. These are extremely helpful and come in a variety of price ranges. 8. BBQ Tool Set   Image Source: encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com Similar to the already-stated grill set, which is portable, this one is a BBQ tool set. It is ideal for those men who like to cook their hearts out and take center stage in family gatherings because of their culinary skills, these sets come with literally each and every item that you are searching for. 9. Personalized Photo Album Or Frame   We all like to take a look back, and walk down memory lane— don’t we? So, how amazing f a gift will it be for your father to give him a customized photo frame with all the memories that you have made together? That is exactly what you need to do this Father’s Day. And, it is easy on the budget too! 10. Whiskey Stones Or Glasses Set   Image Source: img.fruugo.com If your father likes to have a drink or two, it is a great idea to give him a whiskey stone or a glass set. This will not only make you two become better friends but also make him understand that you are not a little child anymore (you get what I mean?) 11. Drone With Camera   Image Source: 5.imimg.com Well, this one is the next on the best fathers day gift ideas and another addition to the list of the best father’s day gifts that is related to the evolving technology. Drones are nothing new anymore. But if your father does not have it yet and likes to capture great aerial views, maybe it is a great idea to give him this one! 12. Golf Accessories  Is your father into sports? And specifically the most sophisticated of them all— gift? If yes, then it will be thoughtful of you to get him all the golf accessories. These sets include golf balls, Rangefinder, as well as a club set. You can also buy them separately and club them into one! 13. Portable Power Bank   This one might be nothing new for you, but maybe your dad needs one. Having a portable charger is nothing less than a blessing these days. Get him one that can charge almost all kinds of gadgets, from phones to laptops. 14. Customized Grilling Apron   Image Source: i.etsystatic.com Does your father already have a grilling set? No worries, maybe you can get him a customized apron for the same. Write anything on it, whatever you like to call your father, or a line from a song that he likes the most. Trust me when I say this— he will be happy each time he puts it on! 15. Wireless Headphones   Image Source: muscleandfitness.com Wireless headphones are the talk of the town for some time now. And if you think your father does not have it yet, then it is time for you to get him one of these. There are a number of great headphones that are available online. Check the specifications and read the review before you buy one! 16. Camping Gear   Image Source: cdn.shopify.com If your father is someone who loves camping every now and then, it is a great idea if you get him camping gear this year. There should be almost everything in it that he will need for a great camping experience. These gears can include a sleeping bag, a tent, and even a camping stove. 17. Virtual Reality Headset   There is yet another addition to the technological gift ideas for your father this year. You must have heard about the VR headset that is going viral these days. Well, what better way to help your dad take a step into this world of Virtual reality than gifting him a VR headset. But be careful as you might fall in love with one too! 18. Premium Coffee Maker   Do you and your father love coffee? If yes, then giving him a premium coffee maker this year on father’s day is not a bad idea at all! There are tons of these available online. So just go through them and get ready for a steaming mug of coffee. 19. Personalized Cufflinks   Cufflinks are not only something of the past. These are still worn and styled as needed. Give your father a handcrafted and customized pair of cufflinks this year. You can carve anything on it, from a quote to a date that is dear to both of you! Trust me, he will love it. 20. Outdoor Hammock   Image Source: footprintfurniture.com.au What a great way it is to spend the evening sipping a cup of tea on the back porch resting on your hammock. Well if that is something that you think your father would like, then it is a great way to turn this thought into a reality. Get him some of the best and most durable outdoor hammocks this father’s day. 21. Engraved Flask   Image Source: i.etsystatic.com Engraving and customizing items that you think will make your father happy is never a bad idea. And this is something that you can do even on a flask. If your father likes to carry a flask around wherever he leaves the house, get him a customized flask. You can also engrave a picture of the two of you to make it extra special. 22. Bluetooth Earbuds   Does he like to listen to music? Is it a hassle for him to manage and detangle the earphones everytime? If so, then help him get rid of it by giving him bluetooth earbuds. These are not only easy to carry, but also extremely efficient. 23. Customized Puzzle With A Family Photo   Image Source: i.etsystatic.com The next one on the list of the best father’s day gift ideas this year is getting him a customized puzzle set where he has to solve the puzzle and make the family photo complete. If he likes to do things that are challenging, then he is bound to like this! 24. Fishing Gear   Does your father like to go fishing every now and then? If yes, then it might be a great idea to give him fishing gear. This set should have all the essential items that one needs when they go fishing, like a fishing rod, a tackle box, and other fishing accessories. 25. Relaxation Gift Set   Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Last but not the least on the list of the best fathers day gift ideas is a relaxation gift set. Your father, like all other dads around the world, goes through a lot of problems that he keeps to himself most of the time. He tries to act tough so that we can feel safe and protected. It is a great idea to give him some time when he can feel relaxed as well. And that is the reason why I have kept the best for the last! Plan a spa day for him, make him destress, make him relax, and make this day all about him! Things To Do With Your Father On Father’s Day!   If you are searching for some of the best things that you can do with your father on this special occasion, then there is a list for that too! There are many meaningful activities you can do with your father on Father's Day to celebrate and spend quality time together. Here are some ideas: 1. Cook Or Prepare A Special Meal Together   Plan a menu and cook your father's favorite dishes together. It's a great opportunity to bond and create memories in the kitchen. 2. Have A Picnic   Pack a delicious lunch or snacks, grab a blanket, and head to a nearby park or a scenic outdoor spot for a relaxed picnic. Enjoy the fresh air and each other's company. 3. Take A Hike Or Nature Walk   Explore the great outdoors by going on a hike or nature walk together. Choose a trail that suits your father's fitness level and enjoy the beauty of nature while engaging in conversation. 4. Play Sports Or Games   If your father enjoys sports, organize a friendly match of his favorite game, such as basketball, soccer, or golf. Alternatively, play board games or card games indoors for some fun and laughter. 5. Watch A Movie Or Binge-Watch A TV Series   Spend a cozy day at home watching your father's favorite movies or TV shows. Prepare some popcorn, snacks, and drinks to make it a full-on movie night experience. 6. Visit A Museum Or Exhibition   If your father has an interest in art, history, or science, take him to a museum or exhibition that aligns with his interests. It can be a fascinating and educational outing. 7. Plan A DIY Project   Engage in a do-it-yourself project together, such as building a piece of furniture, working on a home improvement task, or even starting a garden. It allows you to bond while accomplishing something tangible. 8. Go Fishing   If your father enjoys fishing, plan a fishing trip together. Spend the day by the water, enjoying the tranquility and trying to catch some fish. It's a relaxing and peaceful activity that allows for conversation and reflection. 9. Take A Road Trip   Plan a mini road trip to a nearby town or city that your father has always wanted to visit. Explore new places, try local cuisine, and enjoy the adventure of traveling together. 10. Share Stories And Memories   Take the time to sit down with your father and have meaningful conversations. Ask him about his life experiences, childhood memories, and any advice he may have. It's an opportunity to strengthen your bond and learn from his wisdom. Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time together and show your love and appreciation for your father on Father's Day. Choose activities that align with his interests and preferences to make the day truly special. Wrapping It Up!   Remember, there is no better gift on father’s day than sheer love and respect that can make your papa feel all blessed and happy. However, it is never a bad idea to really make more effort and give him something that he will cherish. In case you were looking for some of the best fathers day gift ideas, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the blog, please feel free to reach out. Scroll down till you reach the comment box at the bottom of the page. Then leave your queries and suggestions there. And I will be there to answer them all for you! More Resources: 10 Things to Do Before You Move Out of State 8 Things Every Parent Should Do To Keep Kids Safe Online 7 Of The Most Funny, Geeky & Cool Star Wars Gifts For Him

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Hand-me-downs and second-hand finds

Making The Most Of Hand-Me-Downs And Second-Hand Finds For Your Kids

If you have kids, you know how expensive it can be to buy them new clothes, toys, books, and other items. Kids grow fast, and their tastes and preferences change often. Buying everything new can put a strain on your budget and create a lot of waste. That's why many parents opt for hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for their kids. Hand-me-downs are items that are passed down from older siblings, relatives, or friends. Second-hand finds are items that are bought or acquired from thrift stores, garage sales, online platforms, or other sources. Keep on reading to learn more… How to Make the Most Out of Hand-Me-Downs? In the era of fast fashion and quickly outgrown children's clothes, buying everything new can get very expensive. Luckily, there are plenty of ways for savvy parents to cut costs by making use of hand-me-downs and second-hand items. Read on for tips on how to source, care for, and refresh these gems for your little ones. Here are some of the tips that you can use to make the most of the hand-me-downs: Sort and Store One of the first things you must do is sort and store your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds properly. This will help you keep track of what you have, what you need, and what you can pass on to others. Sort your items by size, season, and category. For example, you can have separate bins or boxes for winter clothes, summer clothes, shoes, accessories, toys, books, etc. Label them clearly and keep them in a dry and clean place. Store your items in a way that preserves their quality and prevents damage. For example, you can use vacuum-sealed bags, plastic containers, or cedar chests to protect your items from dust, moisture, insects, and mold. You can also use hangers, dividers, or organizers to keep your items neat and tidy. Check your items regularly and get rid of anything that is stained, torn, worn out, or outdated. You can donate, sell, or recycle your unwanted items or use them for crafts or other purposes. Mix and Match Another thing you need to do is to mix and match your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds with your kids' existing wardrobe and preferences. This will help you create some fun and stylish outfits for your kids and make them feel comfortable and confident in their clothes. You should try to mix and match: Colors, patterns, and textures. For instance, you can pair a solid-colored shirt with a floral dress or a plaid skirt with a denim jacket. You can also mix and match different fabrics, such as cotton, wool, silk, or leather. This will add some variety and interest to your kids' outfits. Styles and trends. For example, you can combine a vintage sweater with a modern pair of jeans, or a classic dress with a trendy pair of sneakers. You can also mix and match different genres, such as casual, formal, sporty, or bohemian. This will give your kids some personality and flair in their outfits. Accessories and details. For example, you can add a belt, a scarf, a hat, or a necklace to your kids' outfits. You can also add some buttons, patches, stickers, or pins to your kids' clothes. This will give your kids some fun and creative touches in their outfits. Customize and Personalize The last thing you must do is customize and personalize your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for your kids. This will help you make your items fit better, look better, and feel better for your kids. It will also help you express your kids' individuality and uniqueness. Customize your items to fit your kids' size and shape. For example, you can hem, alter, or resize your items to make them fit your kids better. You can also add some elastic, buttons, or snaps to your items to make them more adjustable and comfortable. Customize your items to suit your kids' style and taste. For example, you can dye, bleach, or paint your items to change their color or pattern. You can also cut, rip, or distress your items to give them some edge or character. Personalize your items to reflect your kids' interests and hobbies. For example, you can embroider, applique, or print your items with your kids' names, initials, or monograms. You can also decorate your items with your kids' favorite characters, animals, or symbols. Sourcing Quality Second-hand Pieces You can uncover great used pieces from friends and family, charity shops, and online marketplaces. When accepting offers of hand-me-downs, don't feel you need to take everything you're given. Politely decline items that are overly worn or stained, and only keep pieces that are still in good condition.  For second-hand shopping, hit up charity shops in more affluent neighbourhoods where higher quality kit is often donated. Check items thoroughly for flaws and be selective in your purchases. Online, sites like eBay, Depop and Vinted offer everything from babygrows to bikes being sold on by other parents, helping you make the most of your budget or fostering allowance.  Caring for Hand-Me-Downs To maximise the longevity of hand-me-downs and second-hand items, properly launder and care for them before passing them on to your little one. Check clothing labels and wash items according to fabric type. Mend any small holes, broken zippers or loose buttons.  For items like bikes or baby gear, inspect them thoroughly and replace any worn parts. Give everything a thorough cleaning to remove grime and make sure pieces are fresh for their new owner. Refreshing & Repurposing Finds Sometimes second-hand stuff just looks, well, second-hand. Luckily there are inexpensive ways to give things new life. For clothes, accessories and soft toys, a spot clean followed by a wash in Oxiclean or similar can freshen up fabrics.  Embellish with ribbons, embroidered patches or appliqués to add decorative flair. Turn that dull vest into a one-of-a-kind piece your child will love. Repurpose old pieces too - vintage babygrows make adorable doll clothes, and adult t-shirts can be made into dresses. Making Second-hand Finds Feel Special Hand-me-downs and pre-loved items often come with a history. Share what you know about an item’s origins with your little one - they’ll love having their own “special story” attached to their clothes and toys.  Help them personalize pieces by adding custom touches like initials or fun fabric paint designs. And display their second-hand treasures proudly by letting them select special books or toys for their rooms. Soon these pre-used gems will hold pride of place in your child’s heart. Additional Tips Check items’ safety before passing to little ones - no small broken parts, frayed edges etc. Store off-season clothing rotated with your child’s growth  Mix second-hand pieces with new ones in your child’s wardrobe Pass pieces along to younger friends/family members when outgrown Sourcing and caring for pre-loved items takes a bit more effort than just popping out for new gear. But with some time and creative vision, you can kit out your kids in great finds without breaking the bank. And by giving their clothes and toys a history, you’ll add an extra layer of love. Bottom Line Hand-me-downs and second-hand finds can be a great way to save money, reduce waste, and give your kids some unique and quality items. However, they can also pose some challenges, such as finding the right size, style, and condition for your kids. By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most of hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for your kids. Learn More About: 8 Newborn Baby Care Tips for First-Time Parents Irish Twins: What Does It Mean? It’s Not What You Think The Art of Being a Great Mom: 10 Simple Tips for Modern Moms

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