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12 Magical Books Every Child Should Read

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12 Magical Books Every Child Should Read
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Few things are more enchanting than watching a child fall in love with a story. Books can transport young readers to places where animals talk, spells solve problems, and bravery lives in the hearts of the smallest heroes. Reading isn’t just about words on a page—it’s about unlocking wonder, building empathy, and fueling lifelong curiosity. Whether you’re raising a reluctant reader or a budding bookworm, these magical books every child should read belong on every shelf. From timeless classics to modern favorites, each one offers something unforgettable.

1. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

This heartwarming tale of friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte has captivated readers for generations. It’s filled with powerful themes of loyalty, kindness, and the beauty of unexpected friendships. The magic isn’t in spells but in words—something Charlotte uses masterfully. This story helps children understand both the joy and sadness that life brings. It’s one of the magical books every child should read for its gentle honesty and emotional depth.

2. Matilda by Roald Dahl

Matilda’s love for books, her telekinetic powers, and her triumph over cruel adults make this story both empowering and fun. Roald Dahl’s quirky humor and rich imagination bring every page to life. Children love cheering for Matilda as she proves that small can still be mighty. This story also encourages kids to see learning and kindness as superpowers. Few magical books every child should read strike the balance between mischief and meaning like this one.

3. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

Meet Despereaux, a mouse with oversized ears and an even bigger heart. This beautifully written book combines fairy tale elements with deep themes of bravery and forgiveness. It’s a story that respects a child’s intelligence while also stirring their sense of wonder. Kids will fall in love with the rich language and unforgettable characters. It’s one of the most magical books every child should read for both its adventure and tenderness.

4. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

With just a few hundred words, this picture book captures the imagination like few others. Max’s journey into a wild world of monsters is both thrilling and deeply emotional. It’s a celebration of imagination and a reflection on the importance of home. The illustrations pull readers into a dreamscape that feels real. This book is short but absolutely earns its place among the magical books every child should read.

5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

This is the book that launched a global phenomenon, and for good reason. From Platform 9¾ to Hogwarts Castle, every page is packed with imagination and heart. Harry’s journey introduces young readers to themes of friendship, identity, and courage. It’s an exciting entry point for longer chapter books and epic storytelling. Truly one of the magical books every child should read at least once.

6. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

This simple story of a young boy enjoying a snowy day captures childhood joy like nothing else. Its beautiful illustrations and quiet magic offer an inclusive, cozy world. The wonder of freshly fallen snow becomes something extraordinary through Peter’s eyes. It’s a gentle reminder that magic exists in everyday moments. This classic picture book deserves its spot on the list of magical books every child should read.

7. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Step through the wardrobe into Narnia, where animals talk, magic rules, and good battles evil. This timeless fantasy is filled with adventure, deep moral questions, and captivating characters. It teaches children about courage, sacrifice, and hope. The world-building is vivid and unforgettable, pulling kids into another realm completely. Few magical books every child should read offer such rich storytelling across generations.

8. The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch

In this hilarious twist on traditional fairy tales, a princess rescues herself—and doesn’t end up with the prince. It’s empowering, funny, and perfect for teaching kids about independence and self-worth. The playful language and bright illustrations make it a favorite for both parents and kids. It flips the script in the best possible way. Every bookshelf needs magical books every child should read that challenge old tropes like this one does.

9. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

This clever, pun-filled adventure teaches kids to love words, numbers, and the unexpected joys of learning. Milo’s journey into a whimsical world makes education feel magical. It’s a story that turns boredom into adventure and apathy into curiosity. The wordplay alone makes it worth reading out loud. It’s a standout among magical books every child should read for its brilliance and humor.

10. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Sometimes magic lives in the rhythm and quiet of bedtime. This gentle book uses repetition and soft illustrations to calm and comfort young readers. It helps build routines and reassures kids that they are safe and loved. The magic here is peaceful and timeless. It’s one of the first magical books every child should read—and many want to hear it again and again.

11. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

Ella may be cursed with obedience, but her story is all about finding her voice. This fantasy novel blends fairy tale charm with real emotional stakes. It encourages readers to think critically about choice, freedom, and strength. Full of humor and heart, it’s a modern classic that keeps readers hooked. Add this to your shelf of magical books every child should read for bold female leads and fantastic storytelling.

12. Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne

Pooh’s quiet adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood are packed with wisdom, wit, and warmth. These stories are gentle but profound, teaching kids about friendship, imagination, and kindness. The characters are timeless and instantly lovable. It’s a book that grows with the child, offering new meanings over time. It’s a cozy must-have among magical books every child should read.

Books That Leave a Little Magic Behind

The best books don’t just entertain—they shape how kids see themselves and the world around them. These magical books every child should read invite wonder, spark curiosity, and plant the seeds of empathy and resilience. Whether it’s their first picture book or their first big chapter book, stories matter. And when they’re filled with magic, their impact lasts forever.

What magical book did your child fall in love with? Share your family’s favorites in the comments—we’re always looking for more to add to the list!

Read More:

Here Are The 5 Best Books for Kids with Wild Imaginations

Top 10 Financial Literacy Books for Kids to Teach Money Skills Early

8 Controversial Parenting Books That Challenge Traditional Methods

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Happy mom with a baby in a sling reading a book in the Park. The concept of children's education in family life

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Not all parenting books preach the same tired advice. Some flip the script entirely, urging parents to rethink discipline, sleep, communication, and even control. These bold titles don’t just question the norm—they often spark fierce debate. Whether you’re looking for fresh insights or books that push your buttons, these controversial reads will definitely make you think. Here are eight books that stir the pot in the parenting world.

1. “Bringing Up Bébé” by Pamela Druckerman

This bestseller offers an American mom’s perspective on French parenting, and it ruffled plenty of feathers. Druckerman suggests that French parents raise more polite, independent kids without helicoptering. Critics argue she over-romanticizes another culture, while fans praise its balance and structure. The book encourages giving children more autonomy and holding clear boundaries. Whether you agree or not, it forces a conversation on over-parenting.

2. “The Coddling of the American Mind” by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

Although not a traditional parenting book, this one explores how modern parenting and education may be making kids less resilient. The authors argue that shielding children from discomfort can backfire. Their views have been labeled controversial, especially around mental health and free speech. It challenges the idea that safety always equals protection. For parents of teens, it’s a provocative, challenging read.

3. “Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother” by Amy Chua

Amy Chua’s memoir of extreme parenting sparked global outrage and admiration in equal parts. She details her authoritarian style of high expectations, strict discipline, and relentless academic pressure. Critics call it abusive; others see it as a cultural difference worth exploring. The book raises tough questions about the role of struggle in achievement. It’s not an easy read, but it’s impossible to ignore.

4. “Free-Range Kids” by Lenore Skenazy

Skenazy’s message is clear: stop micromanaging your children. Her advocacy for independence and unstructured play earned her both praise and backlash. The book questions whether modern parents are too fearful, often to their children’s detriment. Skenazy believes kids are more capable than we give them credit for. It’s a refreshing yet controversial take on raising resilient kids.

5. “Parenting Beyond Belief” by Dale McGowan

This book caters to secular parents who want to raise ethical kids without religious teachings. While many find it empowering, others see it as dismissive of faith. It offers guidance on values, critical thinking, and building community outside of religious institutions. For some, it’s liberating; for others, it crosses a line. Regardless of your stance, it’s a bold, honest discussion about morality and parenting.

6. “Unconditional Parenting” by Alfie Kohn

Kohn turns traditional discipline on its head, questioning praise, punishment, and rewards. He argues that most parenting techniques manipulate rather than support children. His critics say this approach lacks structure, while fans say it respects the child’s dignity. The book’s main message is that love and connection—not control—should be the focus. It’s not for everyone, but it will definitely make you reflect.

7. “All Joy and No Fun” by Jennifer Senior

Mother and daughter enjoy spending time together outdoor.Image is intentionally with grain and toned.

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Senior explores how parenting changes adults more than children. Rather than giving advice, the book documents the emotional complexity of modern parenting. Some readers found it validating; others felt it was overly negative. It challenges the assumption that parenting is always joyful or rewarding. This realism makes it a standout—and a controversial one at that.

8. “The Nurture Assumption” by Judith Rich Harris

Harris argues that parents matter far less than we think in shaping a child’s personality. Instead, peers and genetics do the heavy lifting. This theory rattles the foundation of many parenting philosophies. Critics say it lets parents off the hook; supporters say it brings much-needed balance. Either way, the book is a thought-provoking look at nature versus nurture.

Books Challenger The Core Of Raising Kids

These books don’t just offer advice—they challenge the very core of how we raise our kids. Whether you agree with them or not, they encourage deeper reflection and open discussion. Some ideas will resonate, while others might make your blood boil. But that’s what makes them valuable. After all, parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey.

Which of these books have you read—or avoided? What’s your take on challenging traditional parenting norms? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Read More:

These 5 Books Will Help You With Effective Communication With Your Kids

8 False Myths About Reading That Could Keep Kids from Books

14 Profitable Stay-at-Home Mom Jobs Online (That Are Worth Your Time)

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stay-at-home mom jobs onlineIf you dream of staying home with your kids and want to work from home, then it’s likely your finances will make a significant change. That’s only natural, but planning ahead as you search for stay-at-home mom jobs online can be crucial to a successful transition.

I made that switch in 2015, launching my own part-time freelance writing business. I have two young children under my care and work 12 to 15 hours a week earning $1,500 to $2,500 per month. None of this just happened, so the last thing you’ll hear from me is that it’ll be easy.

But if your goal is to stay home, and your whole family is willing to put in the sacrifices and commitment, then this dream can become a reality.

14 Cash-Generating Stay-at-Home Mom Jobs Online

I write in the personal finance and work-at-home mom niches multiple times each week, so I’ve got an ongoing list of places that pay you to work at home.

You’re likely tired of hearing bloggers promise quick six-figure success as a work-at-home mom because that’s simply not the norm. I’m also not going to talk about taking surveys because those require large quantities of time and typically generate a few gift cards each month.

Where to begin?

You may need to start with something in your field of interest that doesn’t generate the ultimate income you’d like. Just getting your foot in the door and starting up that experience is so important.

Let’s take a look at these job opportunities for SAHMs:

Remote work for companies

Every year, Forbes publishes a top 100-list of companies offering remote jobs. To ensure they bring you the most valuable information, they study the current marketplace, job trends, and validity of these companies. If your skills lie in one of these industries, check out Forbes’ list of potential remote jobs:

  • Computer and Information Technology
  • Medical and Health
  • Government
  • Finance
  • Customer Service
  • Education
  • Training
  • Sales

A lot of these jobs can make up to $60,000 salary per year – which a lot of people consider the minimum needed for a healthy fulfilling life.

Virtual Assistant

If you have a knack for organization and administrative duties, then you’ve got the potential to make serious cash as a virtual assistant. Seriously, this is a stay-at-home mom’s bread and butter. So many online entrepreneurs have irons in the fire and need help running the many details of their business. Some responsibilities for a virtual assistant might include:

  • Answering emails
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Managing invoices
  • Managing blog content
  • Sharing content on social media
  • Designing graphics

What can you earn? According to Payscale.com, virtual assistants earn anywhere from $10 to $28 per hour. Your hours are very flexible and the work is remote, so you can conduct all of your business from the comfort of your home.

Alternate VA Jobs

  • Social Media Manager – Average annual salary according to Payscale.com: $47,472.
  • Graphic Designer – Average annual salary according to Payscale.com: $41,764.

Freelance Writer

Got a gift with words? Hundreds of sites hire writers to create relatable and informative content for their blogs. For example, here are 28 parenting magazines and blogs that pay contributors. If you’re a mom, then take a look at what’s being published on those sites and see if something inspires you to tell your own story.

Another great way to get started is by Googling your field of interest + “write for us.” Some writing niches include:

  • Nutrition
  • Adoption
  • Personal Finance
  • Organization
  • Marriage
  • Travel
  • Fashion

What can you earn? When I started my freelance writing business in 2015, I earned peanuts while I learned the ropes. That changed as my skills and quality of writing improved. According to Payscale.com, most writers earn $10 to $58 per hour. I speak from experience when I say that pay scale is totally accurate.

Alternate Writing Jobs

  • Proofreader – $11 to $30 per hour
  • Transcriber – $9 – $25 per hour
  • Blogger – You won’t likely generate an income with your blog right away. But some very profitable ways to monetize are: Ads, affiliate sales, sponsored posts, and selling your own products. There several good instructions for how to get started – one good site to read is here.

One of the most profitable affiliate niches is in online trading, you can easily become an affiliate by visiting a broker’s site like this one.

Teach via Video

Do you have a specific skill you can teach to others, like how to sing? Perhaps you’d like to educate others in your area of work experience like how to file your taxes, become a photographer, or give a speech.

For example, one of my daughter’s favorite things to do is draw. When she was three and couldn’t draw more than a stick figure, we found a YouTube channel called “Art for Kids Hub” where easy-to-follow drawing tutorials are published every day.

By the end of my daughter’s first lesson, she’d drawn her very first robot. Since then, she’s filled a notebook, cover to cover, with drawings from this YouTube channel.

Watch the tutorial: How to Draw a Cartoon Robot

What can you earn? There is no definitive wage for educational videos. It’s all about creating your brand and giving your audience fantastic content every time. For example, Art for Kids Hub has more than 600,000 subscribers and receives millions of views on its tutorials. YouTube pays ad revenue per 1,000 clicks. Some YouTube educators make millions with their channels. Others break even. It’s all about getting eyes on your videos.

Alternate Online Teaching Jobs

  • Create a course – Selling a course on your website or Udemy.com can become a great passive income. Some courses are $10 and some are in the hundreds.
  • Become a coach – Teach people one-on-one in your field of expertise. For example, life coaches can earn anywhere from $11 to $120 per hour according to Payscale.com.

Online Shop Owner

Can you create a product and sell it online? Etsy and Shopify are two great platforms for this. Product ideas include:

What can you earn? The income scale is difficult to measure due to the vast array of business possibilities. Here is one company that earns $70,000 per month selling on Etsy. You’ll need to know how much time it takes to create each product and to price them accordingly. Online marketing plays a huge role here, too. It’s likely a competitive market.

Flipper for online garage sales

Online pickers are getting better and better at finding hidden gems in garage sales, on eBay, and on social media. If you can spruce up a worn down cabinet or reupholster a chair, you may be able to upsell those items for a nice profit.

What can you earn? One woman I interviewed said she bought some old clay bowls in a Facebook buy, sell, and trade group. She purchased them for $0.50 to $1, then cleaned them up and added a fresh coat of paint. They sold for $15 to $20 each.

Direct sales/MLM online

If there is a product you believe in and want to become a consultant from home, then online is the ideal marketplace for you. Products like LuLaRoe, Norwex, or Young Living sell best through the power of word of mouth. Where is everybody talking these days? Facebook.

One word of caution: This is a heavily saturated marketplace. Don’t annoy your friends. If you believe in your product, then get out there and talk your heart out, but do so in a tasteful and non-aggressive way when it’s very likely your friends have been “pitched to” by others from the same company before.

What can you earn? Each company will tell you the earning potential for contributors. That information is not disclosed online. There is typically an upfront investment to acquire the merchandise, then a set timeframe in which you need to sell a certain amount of product. Bonuses may be issued if you exceed these goals.

What’s my next step?

1. Find like-minded stay-at-home moms in the same fields of interest. Getting real-life feedback on what these jobs are like is crucial to understanding how you’ll build your business.

For example, if you want to blog, join blogging groups on Facebook. If you want to sell LuLaRoe, pick a consultant’s brain. Follow websites or social media celebrities that talk about the topic you’re interested in.

2. Financially prepare for this transition. The #1 reason I was able to launch an at-home business was because of the financial steps my husband and I took before my business launched. How could I run a business when we couldn’t run our budget? How could I quit my full-time job while I spent the time it took to develop my career at home when we owed thousands of dollars in debt?

Our very imperfect journey had many ups and downs, but we overcame the lion’s share of those financial hurdles. Today, we are debt-free minus the mortgage and comfortably live on my husband’s modest income while we use mine to save for emergencies, traveling, and paying extra on the house.

Your Turn: If you could work from home doing something you enjoy, what would it be? Share with us below!

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How Video Games Can Actually Help Your Child’s Social Skills

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Video games have a bad reputation in society. People tend to associate players with lazy nerds who haven’t showered in days. Video games get blamed for the violence. Adults are seen as losers for enjoying their hobbies. Everyone is always trashing video games just because. However, video games can actually benefit the players in the long run. Did you know that a family can become closer when they play together? Believe it or not, video games can actually help a young player with building their social skills.

Child Players Can Find Common Interests

Not every child is a social butterfly. Some children are shy and would rather keep to themselves. It is not a good idea to force them to be social against their will. That can be really hard, especially when they are going through puberty. In the eyes of Texas law, a minor is aged from 10 years old to 17. One way you can help your kids make friends is to let them play video games. The easiest way to connect with people is to have common interests. Hobbies are the quickest way to do that. If your child plays games like Zelda or Donkey Kong, they will more than likely come across another kid who plays those games as well. From there, the children will have something to talk about. Maybe then, a relationship of some sort can be formed.

Child Players Can Build a Community

Video games have countless fanbases. It is not hard to find more than two people who are die-hard fans of a game. Even the Minecraft population keeps smashing new records every year. A new report shows that 400 million of the 600 million active players come from China alone. As stated before, your child will connect with others on and offline with other players. Some games have to be played with others. In these types of games, players have to learn how to work with others and practice teamwork. Children can even form another family in the game and in real life. Especially in the pandemic, children and adults found solace in their video game communities. A child needs a tribe to grow and develop. Video games are a modern way to do that.

Child Players Can Develop Problem-Solving Skills

Video games actually do have value in the real world.

Recent studies on screen time and child development have shown that children engaged in screen time are actually more likely to have better levels of social and emotional well-being than non-users.

They can help a child develop problem-solving skills. Not every video game has to be about shooting and killing things. Puzzles in video games are a good way to help a child use their brain to help them think about how to solve the game. Now, puzzles can be frustrating depending on the difficulty level. Some kids might give up when they find it too hard, while others will learn to keep trying until they solve it. Their skills in solving puzzles in games will transfer well to solving problems in the real world.

Another example of video games helping with problem-solving is real-life simulations. Games like The Sims and Animal Crossing put the player in a world where they have to create a family, get jobs, build relationships, etc. You are put in the position of making choices for your characters. Speaking of which, there are some games where the child’s choices will affect the outcome of the story and gameplay. They are going to have to learn how to make the right choices in their games.

People are not meant to be alone. Up to 63% of the human race have moved to a new community at least once or twice in their lives. Meanwhile, the remaining 37% will never leave their hometowns. That alone is enough to drive anyone crazy. Video games can help a child try and be a little bit more social. They can become a family activity. Video games don’t have to be a bad thing. They can actually do good for the world.

The Best Books to Explain Death to Children

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My son was just 3.5 years old when my brother died.  My son was close to my brother, and telling him that his uncle had passed away was extremely difficult.  Because death was such an abstract topic for a child his age and because he loved to be read to, we bought many books to help him understand.  These are what we found to be the best books for when he was young and when he was older.

The Best Books to Explain Death to Children

Best Books to Explain Death to Young Children

If you have young children, say three to five years old, these are the best books I can recommend based on personal experience.

What’s Heaven by Maria Shriver

Maria Shriver wrote this book when her grandmother, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, died and her children had questions about death.  The story does have a spiritual/religious element to it, but the book can truly be read by people of all faiths.

In the story, Kate’s great-grandmother has just died and her mother answers Kate’s many questions about Heaven.  I like the soft, dreamy feel of the illustrations.

Badger’s Parting Gifts by Susan Varley

This story doesn’t delve specifically into death but in missing the ones we love.  In Badger’s Parting Gifts, Badger is old and heads down the long tunnel.  His friends go to his house the next day and are sad that he is gone.  While they cry in the beginning, in the end, they reflect on all the things that Badger taught them to do such as skating across the ice and learn to tie a tie.  By the end of the book, all of Badger’s friends join together and share fond memories of Badger.

I Miss You: A First Look at Death by Pat Thomas

I Miss You is a book that we read over and over to our son.  This book is perfect for young children as it shares the feelings, including guilt and sadness, that people may feel after a loss.  It also explains how the child may behave, such as withdrawing from others, and the awkwardness that others may feel, and how they may avoid the person who has suffered a loss.

God Gave Us Heaven by Lisa Tawn Bergren and Laura J. Bryant

God Gave Us Heaven comes from a Christian place.  This book explains that people die and go to Heaven.  The book promises that no matter what pain and suffering we have in life, there will be no more of that in Heaven.  This book has young polar bears asking their parents about Heaven, and they receive reassuring answers.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

The Invisible String doesn’t deal specifically with death.  Instead, the mom comforts her twins when they’re scared about a noise in the night.  She tells them that no one is ever alone because we’re all connected to the people we love with an invisible string.

While this book would provide comfort to a child dealing with the death of a loved one, it would also soothe little ones dealing with separation anxiety.

Best Books to Explain Death to Older Children

Even a few years after my brother’s death, my son still wanted to talk about it and process it, so we had books that we read to him then, too.  These books are good for ages six to twelve.

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia, Ph.D.

A family friend gave us The Fall of Freddy the Leaf, and I must confess, it made me cry.  The story is about Daniel and Freddie, two leaves on a large tree.  They grow together through the spring, the summer, and the fall.  When the leaves start to fall, Freddie asks Daniel what is happening.  Daniel explains about death, and Freddie is at first angry.  He wants to know what is the point of life if they just have to die.  Daniel patiently answers Freddie’s questions before Daniel slips gently from the tree branch.

By the end of the story, Freddie is the last leaf, and as he finally falls from the tree, he is at peace and understands his reason for living.

When Dinosaurs Die by Laurie Krasny Brown and Mark Brown

One of the co-authors of this book is Mark Brown, the creator behind the kids’ show, Arthur, so kids will likely recognize the style of the illustrations.

There is no main character in this story.  Instead, the book explains what it means to be alive and what it means to die.  The author also explains why people die.  (Be warned, for young children, there are deaths from drug overdose and suicide mentioned here.)

The book also explains what people may feel when their loved one dies and validates those feelings.  The authors also suggest ways to deal with these feelings.  The book is mostly secular and discusses various burial rituals as well.

Maybe Dying Is Like Becoming a Butterfly by Pimm Van Hest

This book, recommended for 1st through 4th graders, is written by a psychologist.  The story itself is very comforting.  A young child asks his grandpa if he should catch a caterpillar.  Grandpa says no because it might die, which prompts the discussion about death.

For most of the story, grandpa answers Christopher’s questions, including if grandpa is scared to die.  By the end, Christopher decides that death is like a butterfly—maybe after death, there is something else like after a caterpillar is gone, there is a butterfly.

Parents might also enjoy that the last page of the book includes suggestions and tips for discussing death with children.

Final Thoughts

Dying is a part of life, but when death comes and children are too young to understand, explaining the concept can be difficult.  My son, at 3.5 years old, was too young to understand losing a loved one, but he got a better understanding through many of these best books to explain death to children.  Even though we’ve moved on from our loss, we still keep these books because they’ve become a beloved treasure to remind us of a difficult time.

New Toddler Books That Are A Must

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Did you know about the Association for Library Service to Children? Don’t worry, I didn’t either until a few years ago. This organization is excellent at making book recommendations each year. You may think toddlers don’t need much in the way of a book. They do. Aside from colors and word association, they are learning early about life. Teaching family values can happen by reading certain books. Here are my recommendations on books you should be buying this year.

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13 Ways for Stay-at-Home Moms to Save Money

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ways for stay-at-home moms to save moneyWhen I became a stay-at-home mom in 2014, I felt a pang of guilt for no longer contributing financially to the family. Then, as the weeks of staying home progressed, I discovered something incredible. I had a new superpower. I was so much better at saving money! Not to say I was perfect, but by simply spending the lion’s share of my days caring for little ones AT HOME, I saved loads. Let’s take a closer look at some of those practical ways for stay-at-home moms to save money.

13 Ways for Stay-at-Home Moms to Save Money

Since a mom is involved in so many transactions throughout the week, I thought it’d be best to look through these money-saving tips in categories.

Kids and Babies

Don’t buy all new. The minute you become pregnant, you are inundated with offers for bright and shiny things. Everyone will tell you how to keep your baby out of peril. Each piece of advice will be different. Your greatest weapons are:

  • Research
  • Common Sense

Research may show you that buying a car seat new is a wise investment. It may reveal used clothes make a lot of sense for growing babies. Common sense may show you that the French chandelier in your friend’s baby’s nursery doesn’t have to show up in yours, too.

Find out if you qualify for a free breast pump. The government may give you a free breast pump or provide you with a reimbursement. I highly recommend checking it out.

Be strategic about the professional photo sessions. Social media creates so much pressure for parents to create “perfect moments” during each chapter of their children’s lives. Don’t get swept away in expensive photo sessions unless you’ve planned for them and have the budget available.

Food

Load digital coupons. So many stores offer digital coupons. They’re handy and often apply to checkout automatically.

Make your own baby food. I am not a DIY maven. However, when I started researching the health benefits of making homemade baby food (and that getting started wasn’t that hard), I gave it a go.

Once your baby is ready for solids, try mashing a banana or pureeing some superfoods. Freeze them in an ice cube tray for long-term!

Consolidate your trips. Try as I might, I always end up overspending or impulsing buy at the grocery store. Limiting my trips is one way I combat that problem. Another is by ordering my groceries online via ClickList or Shipt. That way, I’m not tempted to overspend and save so much time, too.

House

Pay extra on your mortgage. It’s amazing how much money people can save on their mortgage by paying an extra $100 per month. For example, if you had a 30-year mortgage of $165,000 at 4.5 percent, you’d pay an estimated $135,971 in INTEREST. By paying $100 extra each month over those 30 years, you’d only pay $105,547 in interest. That’s over $30,000 in savings!

Try BankRate’s free amortization calculator here.

Unplug. You can save a lot of money over time on your utilities simply by unplugging your appliances and shutting off your lights. If the weather is nice, shut off the thermostat and throw open some windows.

Reduce extra payments like your phone bill, cable, entertainment subscriptions. What can you trim back in your budget? Can you drop cable? Can you renegotiate your phone bill?

Build an emergency fund. Having money set aside for the unexpected will save so much money on emergency swipes of the credit card.

Selling and Earning

Sell your used goods. Today it’s easier than ever to sell your household goods to others. Check out these seven apps that’ll help you turn your secondhand stuff into cash.

Earn gift cards to cover Christmas. Swagbucks is one of the most popular sites for earning gift cards. You can watch videos, conduct searches, shop online, or do surveys to earn gift cards for places like PayPal, Amazon, and Target. You won’t earn a living, but it’s a great way to cover birthday presents, weddings, or Christmas.

Start a side gig. If you’re a stay-at-home mom looking for a way to make serious money from home, please check out my recent post “14 Profitable Stay-at-Home Mom Jobs Online (That Are Worth Your Time).” It outlines several cash-generating ideas from remote jobs to becoming an entrepreneur.

Ways for Stay-at-Home Moms to Save Money – Part IISAHM Blueprint ebook cover - transparent

I’ve been piling up resources and tips like this for the last three years after my own debt-free journey with my husband. We went from broke and clueless to budgeting and conquering our financial goals – like me becoming a stay-at-home mom – with the steps you’ve read in this article.

If you dream of the day you can stay home with your kids but could use a roadmap like I did, check out “The Stay-at-Home Mom Blueprint.” This eBook tells my story of beating debt and beating the odds to stay home when we only had $2,000 to live on each month.

It also includes 150 strategies to chop your debt, save money, earn from home, and afford your dream of becoming a SAHM.

If you liked this list of ways for stay-at-home moms to save money, “The Stay-at-Home Mom Blueprint” is this plus steroids.

Click here to learn more!

Your Turn: Share with us a few ways for stay-at-home moms to save money in the comments below!

This post contains affiliate links.

Are you a stay-at-home mom? Check out these bonus resources created just for you!

Are you a stay-at-home mom? Make sure you bookmark or pin some of these resources for later!

How to Afford Being a Stay-at-Home Mom

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how to afford being a stay-at-home momWhen I was pregnant with my first child, every day held excitement about the future. But I couldn’t quite shake the weight I felt on my shoulders when I thought about returning to work six weeks after her birth. I wanted so desperately to stay home, but simply couldn’t imagine how to afford being a stay-at-home mom.

It just doesn’t come up much in school, does it? “Living On Half Your Income 101.” Yeah, not so much. Today’s culture often says things like “Put it on credit” or “You deserve more” or good ‘ole “YOLO.” But some dreams involve spending and earning a whole lot less.

And they sure are worth it.

See, my husband and I really needed a roadmap, some kind of guidelines to help us navigate these tumultuous waters.

If that’s you, then let me encourage you. Our “get-your-financial-act-together” journey started in 2011. In 2012, my husband and I paid off $22,000 to become debt-free right before our daughter’s birth. We stockpiled as much as we could into our emergency savings and learned to continually live within our means (MUCH harder than it sounds!).

This led to one of the happiest days of my life. It was in May of 2014. I was 30 weeks pregnant with our second child and kept having labor symptoms when I’d work on my feet all day at my job. Rather than risk a premature delivery, that became the catalyst for our leap of faith.

That was the day I quit my job and officially became a stay-at-home mom. I waddled to my car with astonishment stamped on my face. It really was happening.

You need to understand the primary reason for this astonishment. We would now be living on less than $2,000 a month. It seems impossible that we could have done this (especially if you knew how bad we were at budgeting when we were single!). The thing is, we hustled our hineys off and no longer had debt. We’d been budgeting like paupers and renting from family instead of rushing into a home we couldn’t afford.

Even on such a small income, we really were ready. Hence my amazement.

Every dream is different. And that’s OK.

Your dream may not be to stay home. That’s totally fine! If you love working outside the home, then embrace that and enjoy your work. Nor are you required to generate an income if you do decide to stay home full-time. Let’s just get that out there.

So many of the steps we took as a couple had very little to do with me making extra money from home. They set an important foundation that centered around three major components:

  • Communication
  • Changing habits
  • Financial freedom

Let’s pull back the curtain a little further and explore what I mean.

How to Afford Being a Stay-at-Home Mom

Here are some practical first steps you can take in your journey toward spending more time with your kids!

Step #1: Kick debt to the curb.

When my husband and I committed to paying off our outstanding debt in two years instead of seven, we forced ourselves to:

  • Budget every month
  • Snip our credit cards and always pay with debit or cash
  • Live intentionally on less
  • Communicate in healthier ways about money

For example, the biggest way my husband and I melted debt was to intentionally begin living on his income. It took months, but eventually, we were able to apply every dime from my paycheck toward debt.

After that, our small income became that much more powerful. Imagine what you could do with your money if you didn’t have any payments. That one thought spurred us on.

Recommended Article: “10 Steps to Create a Successful Stay-at-Home Mom Budget”

Step #2: Save for the unexpected.

Saving for emergencies is the most powerful way you can create financial stability in your home. Smaller emergencies like an oil leak can be covered in the “auto repair” portion of your budget. But what if your income-generating spouse loses his job? That buffer is the difference between you remaining a stay-at-home mom through that transition or scrambling for work alongside your partner.

A great place to start with a savings buffer is $1,000. More can be accumulated once you’re out of debt, but that first $1k is your Kevlar vest against calamity.

Step #3: Act.

We covered the basics. Whether you’re a mother or would like to be one someday, you can begin this journey today. It’s time to choose your next step and ACT.

A great place to start is a conversation with your significant other. This plan requires openness and commitment from both of you. It’s also going to take time. Best to start the conversation now.

For example, when I messed up the budget, I knew I could approach my husband about it instead of burying my head in the sand like I’d done in the past. We worked through many problems that way. Extend grace. Talk about your dreams. Re-commit.

Another great next step is to further your education. Try joining a Facebook group that centers around whipping your family finances into shape. The added support is tremendous. Here are two great groups you can join:

Build on the foundation.

If you’ve read this far, it means you’re dead serious about your dream of becoming a stay-at-home mom. That’s awesome.

I believe you can do it, but this is just the framework. It’s not going to keep the rain or wind out of your house. To add siding, insulation, a roof, and even some shiplap if that’s your fancy, then I strongly encourage you to check out my eBook called “The Stay-at-Home Mom Blueprint.” In it, I expand my story on climbing out of debt and achieving my dream of staying home. I also walk you through 150 practical strategies that my husband and I used (and still use today) to communicate better, chop debt, and save money.SAHM Blueprint

This is the roadmap I wish I’d had when we first dreamed of transitioning into a single-income family.

Also, if you do want to earn money from home, “The Stay-at-Home Mom Blueprint” includes dozens of ideas to sell your stuff, earn gift cards or cash from home, or build an online business. My business didn’t happen until nearly two years after I became a SAHM. Since then, I’ve made nearly $20,000 just working part-time as a freelance writer. I know without a doubt that this business wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t safely transitioned into a stay-at-home mom first.

Ready to take your journey toward staying home to the next level?

Grab your copy of “The Stay-at-Home Mom Blueprint” today.

Your Turn: What advice would you give someone on how to afford being a stay-at-home mom? Share with us below!

This post may contain affiliate links.

Image Credit: AI Photography

Hungry for more financial tips for stay-at-home moms? Look no further!

Here are 8 of the Best Kids Books On Audible

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best kids books on audibleWe all know reading to a child is paramount to his or her development. In my experience as a mother of two, I’m always on the hunt for fun, new ways to teach my kids. One of our favorite ways is listening to audiobooks. Therefore, I put together my top 10 list of the best kids books on Audible.

There are several benefits from audiobooks that I would like to share with you.

Kids learn to sit still. A byproduct of your children sitting in one place and paying attention to the narration of a book is that they’ll develop a stronger habit of sitting still. Even my two-year-old has shown improvement in his ability to sit quietly when the need arises. This comes in handy when you’re in a public place such as a waiting room or classroom.

Also, audiobooks expand a child’s vocabulary. Children are often introduced to new words in context and with their pronunciation. Often these books promote education, behavior, language, mathematics, etc. It also gives your child a fresh form of media besides a screen.

While reading to your child at bedtime is a vital bonding experience, audio books for kids create another dimension of imagination and education without the addictive side effects of screen time.

Let’s take a look at some great audio books my kids enjoyed over the last few years.

8 Memorable Audio Books for Kids of All Ages

EARLY LEARNERS – 0 to 5 years

1. “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper

Despite its small size, the little engine used the power of positive thinking to conquer a mountain. This lesson is great for every generation of kids and can be enjoyed on audio with the rich tones of Mike Ferreri narrating.

2. “The Peter Rabbit Collection” by Beatrix Potter

This beloved classic exposes your children to the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his woodland friends. On Audible.com, you can now enjoy the entire Peter Rabbit collection for a very low price.

3. “The Cat and the Hat and Other Dr. Seuss Favorites” by Dr. Seuss

What was your favorite Dr. Seuss book as a child? Well, now it might be available on Audible for your whole family to listen. These best-sellers have stood the test of time for six decades.

Not to mention, this collection of audible stories is narrated by:

  • Kelsey Grammar
  • John Cleese
  • Dustin Hoffman
  • Billy Crystal
  • And More…

GRADE-SCHOOLERS – 6 to 11 years

4. “The Wizard of Oz” by Frank L. Baum

This classic story is so enjoyable to listen to, due to the dynamic narration performed by award-winning actress, Anne Hathaway. She brings an “all-in” devotion to each character that will capture your kids’ attention (and yours, too!).

5. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling

Why am I putting one of the most popular children’s books on this list? Two words: Jim Dale. Never have you heard an audiobook until you’ve been read to by award-winning voice talent, Jim Dale. Even as an adult, I get a kick out of J.K. Rowling’s great storytelling and Dale’s diverse collection of voices for the memorable characters in Harry’s world.

If you believe your child is old enough for the thematic elements of this book, then give the audiobook a shot.

6. “The Kid Who Only Hit Homers” by Matt Christopher

Do you have a ball player in your family? I don’t know of anyone who wrote better sports books for middle readers than Matt Christopher. I’d finish a story, and feel a strong impulse to grab a ball and glove and speed off to the park.

One of Christopher’s most popular stories, “The Kid Who Only Hit Homers,” is available on audio with a full cast of narrators.

7. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien

This dramatized audiobook is the narrated telling of Tolkien’s bedtime story about the adventures of Bilbo Baggins. Follow his journey with a whole slew of dwarves as they head toward the Misty Mountain in search of their long-lost treasure – guarded, of course, by a fire-breathing dragon.

8. “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly

This is the true story of the African-American women who helped the United States win the space race. Shetterly’s book became a movie in 2016 and sends an important message to young people that their minds are precious, no matter their color or gender.

Reading is a delight that can last a lifetime. Help your child understand the many layers of literature and the skills he or she will need to get lost in a story and enjoy the endless worlds waiting on the pages.

Bonus Reading: “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Wants to Give Your Child a Free Book Every Month”

Got your own list of best kids books on Audible? We’d love to hear it!

If you’re a stay-at-home mom, make sure you bookmark or pin some of these great resources for later!

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Wants To Give Your Child a Free Book Every Month

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Dolly Parton's Imagination LibraryDid you enjoy watching Reading Rainbow as a kid? Turns out, the popular educational show was much more than children’s entertainment; it was a movement. For 20+ years, the show did its best to inspire children of all ages and walks of life to pick up a book and read. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library picked up the same torch to inspire young readers all across the world.

How important is it for children to read?

We’ve all heard the saying that “leaders are readers,” but the importance of literacy goes much deeper than that. According to a study by the US Department of Education, 32 million adults in America can’t read. Another study shows that two out of every three students who don’t proficiently by 4th grade could end up on government assistance or in jail.

Statistics like that drove people like Levar Burton and Dolly Parton to make a change. With Reading Rainbow, kids learned from books read and discussed on TV. In Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, new books show up right on your doorstep.

What is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library?

In 1995, Dolly Parton cast a vision to grow children’s love for reading in her home state of Tennessee. Regardless of their family’s income, Parton sees to it that every child receives a quality, age-appropriate book to read every month.

Over 20 years later, more than 80 million books reached young readers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Author’s Note: I recently went through the sign-up process and discovered that my region is not currently eligible. Upon further research, I discovered that organizations partner with Parton’s foundation to fund the expense for books in their specific regions. Therefore, be aware that not all locations qualify.

What Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Could Mean for Your Family

In an age when children are parked in front of screens for up to 11 hours a day, a resource like this may tip the scale on that balance. Imagine a new book showing up in the mail for you to read each month.

Recommended Reading: 7 Screen-Free Activities for Preschoolers

If this is an initiative you’d like to support or you’d like to sign your child up today, check out Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for instructions on how to donate.

Other Ways to Save Money On Children’s Books and Promote Reading In Your Home

If your region isn’t eligible, don’t give up. Here are some more money-saving options for your young reader:

  • Weekly storytime at your local library
  • Reading contests at school or the library
  • PaperBackSwap.com – Trade your books with other members for a small trading fee.
  • Book swap parties – Invite some other parents to your home and ask them to bring any children’s (or other genres of) books they’d be interested in swapping. Lay them all out on a table, draw numbers, and take turns picking from the “new inventory.” Get your kids involved, too!
  • Consignment sales – Books are often sold for $1 or less.
  • Garage sales
  • Audiobooks – You can check these out for free at the library. They include a book for children to use as they listen along.

For more on reading for your kids, or reading to your kids, check out these great articles.

The Importance of Reading to Your Child
A Fun and Economical Way to Get Kids Interested in Reading: Comic Books
Here are 8 of the Best Kids Books On Audible
5 Best Comic Book Storage Boxes and Bins
6 Best Comic Book Display Shelves

What were some of your favorite books to read as a child? Tell us in the comments below!