Saving Money with a Toddler

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

31 Jul 2008 02:33 PM

Isn't it amazing how little ones can cost so much. Toys, food, clothing, equipment and entertainment can all add up at the end of the year. Here are some ways to save when you have a toddler.

Potty train your toddler as soon as he is ready. This can be anywhere from 18 months to 4 years old, depending on the child. Of course you don't want to force a child to train, but many toddlers are really ready sooner than you might think. And, the sooner you train, the fewer diapers you'll have to buy.

While we are on the subject of potty training, avoid those disposable training pants. They work the same way as do diapers but cost 15 cents more per piece. And you can call them whatever you like, but toddlers are smart enough to figure out that they aren't really underwear. Invest in cloth training underwear, which can be used over and over again, and just line the bed with a waterproof pad if you are worried about night time accidents.

Toddlers are notoriously picky eaters. Make sure to serve them a variety of food in small portions to avoid waste. By snacks in bulk and repackage them if necessary. Cut up a whole apple and add a few drops of lemon juice if you need to preserve some of it for later.

Little people make lots of little messes. Instead of reaching for a baby wipe or a paper towel every time will cost you. Instead use some inexpensive wash cloths or cut up towel for clean up. They can be laundered over and over again.

Consider skipping a clothing size for your toddler. They grow so quickly, and if you time it right, you can easily put your toddler into clothing that is just a bit larger. Onsies and t-shirts work well with this idea.

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Some Related Posts:

The Frugal Baby: Disposable Diapers and Brands

The Frugal Baby: Disposable Diapers And Buying in Bulk

Make Your Own Diaper Cake

Make Your Own Soap Crayons

Making the Transition to a Toddler Bed

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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