As a stay at home parent, I've allowed the feeling of "not contributing" enter into my head on multiple occasions. This is on my own accord to feel this way however through small changes in the years I now feel that I've been a contributor to our income in my own way.
Here are 6 ways I contribute to our finances:
1. Buying clothes for my children at the end of "season"
I used to buy clothes for my child as they were outgrowing pieces but when I'd go to the store a t-shirt would be 8$ or at best 6$ on sale. Doesn't seem like much however if you go to the store at the end of summer for example.. they have clearance sales. In Alberta specifically, I find Superstore to have the best sales and Childrens Place also can have some really great finds on clearance. I can buy that summer shirt for as low as 2$ instead. This applies to shorts, sandals, water shoes, bathing suits, winter boots, winter jacket and ski pants.
2. Buying second hand or receiving hand me downs
I've been very blessed to have older cousins for my son to be able to receive hand me downs. We've never had to buy him clothes since he was born unless it was for a specific occasion. Take advantage of those offers because it saves you so much. I have only recognized this since my daughter doesn't have the opportunity for hand me downs and we have to buy all her next sizes. If I find a great price on Marketplace finds we go that route too. Of course it gets difficult as they develop their own sense of style but my kids have learnt "LOOK FOR THE SALE"
3. SALE SALE SALE
Don't buy brand new, wait for those sales. This applies to groceries, furniture, decor, clothes and more! Shop around for those big purchases to get the best price.
4. From farm to table
I grow my own vegetable garden and am able to produce enough food that we don't have to buy peas, corn, carrots, potatoes, beans, pickles, tomato sauce, salsa, jam or pumpkins for about 75-80% of the year. Now, I do know lots of people may not have the opportunity to grow a large garden but there are small options you can do in small spaces. I've grown lettuce in RED SOLO cups and those just sit on my window sill in the house. You can even grow herbs indoors. On patios if you have the proper lighting you could grow a few tomato plants, a vine of peas even.
5. Use your local library instead of buying brand new books
I used to be horrible for going to Costco and picking up 3 books to buy and only reading once. I didn't realize till I did the math how much I was spending. It was even worse when I realized that I couldn't resell majority of my books for a descent price. My local library also
6. Eat in
Going out to eat is a luxury not an everyday item. If I'm able to plan ahead for city day trips we pack our own lunch, snacks, drinks and coffees. We do buy here and there but not all the time.
I also make majority of our meals from scratch (pizza, lasagna, ectera) this allows me to avoid those mark ups on items.
Even though I stay at home with my children and that in itself saves us money, I still feel this need to bring more to the table and any small contribution makes me feel that much better. I know everyone is different and you find what makes you happy and satisfied with your life.
How do you find ways of saving money in your household?
Comments