Bringing up children can be extremely rewarding, but it’s no secret that it can also be expensive. From feeding and clothing your little ones to paying for childcare and days out, the costs really start to add up. However, with some clever money-saving tactics, you can take care of your children while also keeping more cash in your pocket. Read on for four brilliant hacks to cut costs as a parent in the UK.
1. Look into Available Support
One of the best things you can do as a parent is fully understand what financial assistance is available to you. Make sure you’re receiving all the government benefits and tax credits you’re entitled to, such as Child Benefit, Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit. You may also be eligible for help with childcare costs through Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours of free childcare. If you’re fostering a child with an agency like Foster Care Associates, you can receive a fostering allowance to help cover the child’s living expenses. It’s also worth checking if your local council offers any grants or funds to help families in financial need. The key is doing your research, as you don’t want to miss out on support that could make a big difference.
2. Buy Second-Hand
Children grow incredibly fast, so there’s no need to buy everything brand new. From clothes and shoes to toys and baby gear, you can save a packet by shopping second-hand. Charity shops, eBay and Facebook Marketplace are great places to pick up bargains. You can also use sites like Vinted to sell any outgrown items and make back a bit of cash. When friends or family are done with their children’s stuff, offer to take it off their hands. Hand-me-downs among your own children can also stretch your budget. The second-hand route is kinder to your wallet and the environment.
3. Cook Economical Family Meals
Feeding a family of four or more three meals a day can really take a bite out of your budget. To save money on food, plan out a weekly meal schedule focused on economical recipes. Things like homemade soups, stews, pasta bakes and casseroles are nutritious and inexpensive. Buying store-brand ingredients rather than name brands makes a difference, too. It also helps to cook a big batch of a meal on weekends and freeze individual portions to reheat during busier weeknights. Packed lunches will spare you from forking out for school cafeteria meals as well. Getting creative in the kitchen will keep your family fed while slimming down your grocery bills.
4. Take Advantage of Free Activities
Children love days out, but attractions, events and entertainment can cost a small fortune. Whenever possible, look for free or discounted activities to keep your children occupied. Parks, beaches, forests and other open spaces offer room to run around and explore. Museums, galleries and heritage sites often have free entry days or discounts for families. Your local library likely hosts free crafts, reading groups and more. Schools, community centers and churches also put on affordable or free events. If you have an annual membership to the National Trust, RHS or other organizations, make the most of it by visiting their sites regularly. Taking advantage of free or cheap activities will let your family have fun without breaking the bank.
Being a parent certainly has its expenses, but you don’t have to break the bank. Following savvy money-saving tactics like those listed above enables you to provide for your children while pinching pennies.
