15 No-Brainer Ways to Save Money as a Family Today

One of the times my kids are the most wasteful (other than mealtimes) is when they craft. From leaving markers uncapped to coloring one mark on every single page of a coloring book, crafting can be very wasteful. I know it's tempting to throw a bunch of crafts at your kids and sneak off to get things done while they're occupied, but keeping a closer eye on the projects will save your wallet in the long run.

Source: Flickr user AForestFrolic

The fine line between letting your toddler learn his way and not letting him waste an entire carton of milk while learning how to pour is a tricky one to navigate. So pick and choose the things that are less wasteful for your tot to learn on. For example, have him fine-tune his motor skills by cutting old newspaper instead of new construction paper, or let him learn to pour water in the bath before graduating to milk.

Source: Flickr user Jessica Merz

Pick a dollar amount that you'll spend no more than for a child's friend's birthday, and do the same for gifting inside the immediate family. After the boundary is set, it will help keep kiddos in check when they start begging you to spend more.

Source: Flickr user whyohwhyohwhyoh

A simple Google or Facebook search will reveal mommy swaps in your town or city. Can't find one? Start one. People are always looking to trade or buy/sell items cheaply but especially children's clothing, gear, and toys.

Source: Flickr user ashleigh290

Although it may sound a lil' hippie-dippie, co-ops are a fantastic way to cut down on costs. From schools to groceries to babysitting, parenting co-ops decrease the financial burden on some of the priciest parts of parenting.

Source: Flickr user Kirsten Skiles

Parents of preteens and teens know that one child can spend an abnormally long amount of time showering. Instead of letting money run down the drain while they're just wasting time (and doing God knows what), set up a time limit for showering.

Source: Flickr user Evil Erin

I know for most of us, it's not necessarily realistic to use our bikes for the daily parts of life, but for all the extra stuff, try to figure out ways to use your bike instead of your car (ride to the pool, park, friend's house, etc.). Bonus: kids love bike rides, they'll be well exercised (read: sleep well), and it saves on gas!

Source: Flickr user eyeliam

Have you ever gone to the grocery store at 4:45 p.m. when you're hungry, your kids are hungry, and you have no idea what to make for dinner? Chances are that was not your cheapest grocery run ever. Avoid the grocery store splurge by planning out your meals ahead of time — you might even be able to plan and buy based on sales at your local store.

Source: Flickr user Liz

Frugal mamas know that packing lunch is a key way to save a few bucks, but keep in mind that while it helps during school, it also makes good fiscal sense to pack a lunch for your family whenever possible (and it helps avoid dealing with a hungry brood and no good food options).

Source: Flickr user Melissa

Of course you're going to still eat out as a family from time to time, but if you really want to keep to a budget, then try to dine at restaurants where kids eat free (yes, that's right, FREE!).

Let's face it, family vacations are pricey. Kids (and you even) will have just as much fun if you do a staycation this Summer. Backyard campouts or visits to local landmarks can be just as memorable, if not more, than a pricey trip away with financially stressed-out parents.

Source: Flickr user Michael (a.k.a. moik) McCullough

Another quick Internet search will show that nearly every museum across the country offers free days at some point during the year. Figure out when those days are for the attractions near you, and utilize those days with your family whenever you can.

Source: Flickr user Valerie Everett

Instead of hiring outside help or paying your own little helpers, make some (or all) chores just another daily part of your family. If you want to reward children for their work, think about using a point system instead of a dollar system.

Source: Flickr user Mary-Frances Main

When you are trying to tighten your belt, limiting the amount of extracurricular activities your child participates in is one way to cut back. A planned activity, class, or camp (or two) shouldn't break the bank, but if your child is signed up for three or more activities, then you're going to be paying for it (both in dollars and time). Remember, an overscheduled child is not always a happier child.

Source: Flickr user River Arts