Kids Ain't Cheap

8 Affordable Birthday Party Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

January 31, 2025 | Leave a Comment

On average, birthday parties for kids cost an average of $300 to $500, which many parents can’t afford. If you have multiple children or you’re on a budget, you’ll likely have to find ways to cut costs. Hosting the party at home, making the food and desserts yourself, and choosing budget-friendly decor can save you money. To help you plan a festive celebration that won’t break the bank, here are 8 affordable birthday party ideas.

1. Board Game Party

First on our list of affordable birthday party ideas is a board game night at home. Depending on the size of your guest list, you may already have enough board games on hand to keep everyone entertained. But if you need to purchase a few extra games, family favorites like Trouble, Sorry, Battleship, and Guess Who can usually be purchased for under $20 each.

Keeping the decorations simple yet festive can help you cut costs. This fun backdrop says “Game on” and will set the tone for your child’s party perfectly. Adding these jumbo inflatable dice and game night-themed plates will round out the decor. For party favors, you can’t go wrong with gaming stickers and candy.

2. Dinosaur Party

Studies have shown that one in three children loves dinosaurs, so this affordable birthday party idea is sure to be a hit! Plus, the setup couldn’t be easier thanks to this dinosaur party kit. It contains everything you need for an at-home birthday bash, including cake toppers, balloons, table settings, and streamers.

No party is complete without food. Use these dino cookie cutters to transform fruit slices and sandwiches into fun shapes. Instead of buying an expensive cake, save money by making these Betty Crocker dinosaur sprinkle cookies. For entertainment, grab this pin the tail on the dinosaur game and have a Jurassic Park movie screening.

3. At-Home Escape Room

Escape rooms are popular party venues, but cost anywhere from $25 to $40 per person. Luckily you can cut costs by purchasing an “escape room in a box” from Mattel. It contains everything you need to create an immersive experience at home, including over a dozen puzzles and real locks. It even connects to Alexa to enhance gameplay.

4. Medieval Knights Party

Remember how fun it was to go to Medieval Times as a kid? Tickets for the real show can cost upwards of $65 per person. But you can turn this into an affordable birthday party idea by replicating the experience at home. This fun inflatable jousting kit will make your kids and their friends feel like gladiators.

These medieval birthday party decorations will help you transform your home into a castle. The kit includes banners, balloons, cake toppers, and more. For dinner, turkey legs (which can easily be cooked in an Instant Pot) are sure to be a hit. Finally, set the tone for the party with this medieval music playlist.

5. Under the Sea Party

If your child loves the ocean, beach, or aquarium, an under-the-sea party is a great choice! For entertainment, watch classic movies like Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid. Kids will also enjoy this aquatic bean bag toss game. To save money, keep the decorations simple with this ocean decor kit, which comes with balloons, tablecloths, cupcake toppers, and more. Fish sticks are an easy, crowd-pleasing lunch option. Instead of buying a cake, whip up some cupcakes with blue buttercream frosting.

6. Spy Adventure Party

Looking for more affordable birthday party ideas? Consider hosting a spy adventure party. Playing espionage games like Codenames and Spy Alley will make your kids and their guests feel like secret agents. You can also watch detective movies like Inspector Gadget and Spy Kids.

For decorations, blow up these spy balloons and hang this top-secret backdrop. To complete the experience, pass out these secret agent party favors, which include mustaches, magnifying glasses, and detective ID cards.

7. DJ Party

Make sure your guests feel the beat of the music as they arrive for your DJ-themed party! Play this Kidz Bop soundtrack to create a fun, vibrant atmosphere. Hang up these DJ decorations to turn your home into a kid-friendly club. You could even turn down the lights, set up sound-activated party lights, and pass out glow sticks. To keep the partygoers entertained, play games like musical chairs and freeze tag. Finally, set up a snack table with treats like chips and dip, punch, and candy.

8. Unicorn Princess Party

Celebrate your little girl with a fabulous princess and unicorn party. Encourage guests to come dressed up as royalty to enhance the princess vibes. You can also pass out some extra accessories like crowns and faux jewels. For activities, pick up these mini bubble wands and a bracelet-making kit. Deck out your home with princess ba l loons and this unicorn party kit, and you’re guaranteed to have a magical day!

You don’t have to break the bank to create special birthday memories for your child. Hopefully, these affordable birthday party ideas have given you the inspiration you need to cut costs without sacrificing family fun.

What Is Positive Discipline? A Cost-Effective Approach to Parenting

January 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Involve Your Kids in Rule-Setting — Image Source: Pexels

If you’ve never tried it before, you may be wondering, what is positive discipline? It’s a parenting approach that emphasizes encouragement instead of punishment. Praising your child for good behavior can often be more powerful than yelling at them over mistakes. Kids crave connection with their caregivers and might act out to get your attention. Focusing on positive reinforcement instead of lectures teaches your kids that the best way to get recognition from you is to be nice and cooperative.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to be permissive to practice positive discipline. You can still be clear and firm about rules and boundaries while being kind. Instead of resorting to shouting, this methodology advises parents to calmly remind kids of the rules, redirect negative behaviors, and use age-appropriate consequences like time-outs.

Now you know the answer to the question “What is positive discipline?” Let’s jump into some ways to put it into action and discuss why it’s so cost-effective.

Easy Ways to Practice Positive Discipline

Positive discipline is all about helping kids build healthy self-esteem and positive social skills through encouragement. Here are some agency-building parenting strategies that will support your child’s development.

Involve Your Kids in Rule-Setting

Did you ever have a teacher who involved you in creating the class rules for the year? You can do a similar exercise with your children to give them a sense of agency. Ask them to help you write a list of household rules, and encourage them to think about what will happen if the rules aren’t followed. For example, if they don’t do their chores, the house will be dirty. This thought experiment helps them understand why certain rules are beneficial and necessary.

Then ask them what kinds of consequences would be appropriate if the rules are broken. Display the finished list of rules prominently so your kids have a visual reminder of household guidelines. Your kids will likely have an easier time buying into and following the rules that they helped create.

Encourage Problem-Solving

When your child makes a mistake, try to involve them in finding a solution instead of getting frustrated with them. For example, if they have a tantrum, help them brainstorm better ways to express their emotions next time. This approach will teach your child problem-solving skills and give them the tools to handle the situation differently in the future.

Have Realistic Expectations

It’s also important to have realistic expectations for your child and explain them in a way they can understand. For example, it would be unreasonable to expect a four-year-old to sit quietly for an hour. Setting age-appropriate boundaries and communicating them clearly will help you discipline your kids more effectively. Reminding them of rules as needed can also help them remember and internalize appropriate behavioral standards.

Be a Good Role Model

Kids have a keen sense of injustice and may feel resentment if they’re held to higher behavioral standards than adults. For example, it might feel unfair to a child that they have to apologize for yelling if you don’t. You can avoid this dynamic by being a good role model for your kids and displaying the character traits you want them to embody. After all, kids learn a lot by observing their parents.

Prioritize Praise

Perhaps the most important aspect of positive parenting is praising and encouraging your child. Recognizing their hard work and good behavior will reinforce the character traits and habits you want them to develop. Showing your child love with words of affirmation will help them build healthy self-esteem and foster a great parent-child relationship.

Why Positive Discipline Is So Cost-Effective

What Is Positive Discipline? A Cost-Effective Approach to Parenting — Image Source: Pexels

Many parenting strategies such as harsh punishments and bribes work in the short-term but cost families in the long run. Yelling can create self-esteem issues and even mental health problems over time, which can be expensive to treat. Using material rewards to motivate your child can also break your budget. The price of toys and other treats adds up, especially if you have multiple kids.

Permissive parenting is another wallet-draining strategy. Giving your kids whatever they want can create a sense of entitlement and lead to escalating monetary demands. When they’re young, they may only want small things like candy. But as they get older, they may request increasingly expensive items like computers and name-brand clothes.

In contrast, positive discipline techniques cost nothing and are known to be effective. Following this methodology will help you raise well-adjusted kids who are less likely to need therapy, tutoring, and behavioral interventions. Plus, positive discipline helps foster a sense of agency and intrinsic motivation in your child, so they won’t need external incentives like gifts in order to strive for success.

What are your favorite cost-effective parenting strategies? Let us know in the comments!

From Closet to Cause: The Best Places to Donate Baby Clothes

January 24, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Where to donate unneeded baby clothes to help at rick children — Image Source: Pexels

Babies grow out of everything from clothing to infant car seats in the blink of an eye! It can be hard to figure out what to do with all the baby gear you no longer need. Between listing all your items and negotiating with hagglers, selling baby clothes on eBay or Facebook can be a time-consuming hassle. Gifting your child’s hand-me-downs to a growing family may be easier and more gratifying. But if you don’t know any new moms in your area, you may be wondering, where can you donate baby clothes? Here’s a list of worthy charities and organizations that accept baby clothes.

Where to Donate Baby Clothes

1. Foster Closets

Children in foster care usually have very few belongings and need support. Foster closets are nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost necessities to foster kids and parents, including clothes, books, and bedding. These closets are often run by volunteers and rely on community donations, so they’re great places to support if you’re wondering where to donate baby clothes. Look up “foster closets near me” or call your local CPS to find out how to drop off your gently used items.

2. Buy Nothing Groups

Buy Nothing groups are forums where you can offer free, gently used items like baby clothes to people in your community. You can also respond to requests for household goods if you’re willing to donate the items someone needs. These gifting groups are usually hosted on Facebook or the Buy Nothing app. Membership is limited to households in your area, so you won’t have to pay any shipping costs to donate baby clothes. Just keep in mind that trading, bartering, and selling aren’t allowed. You can find your local forum here.

3. Baby Banks and Pregnancy Centers

Similar to foster closets, baby banks are organizations that provide material resources to low-income parents. They’re always in need of gently used baby clothes and gear, so see if you can find one in your area to donate to. Pregnancy centers that serve expectant mothers could also make use of your secondhand items.

4. Giving Factory Direct

Wondering where to donate baby clothes if you don’t have a baby bank in your area? Try Giving Factory Direct, an organization that helps clothing-insecure children. All you have to do is enter the size of the baby clothes you want to donate and Giving Factory will match you with a family in need. You’ll receive a free shipping label so you can package your items and drop them off at UPS. Just make sure that your donations don’t have any rips, stains, or personalized name tags before you send them off.

5. Thrift Stores

Thrift stores like Goodwill and the Salvation Army are also great places to drop off gently used baby clothes. Although secondhand shops make customers pay for merchandise, the profits they earn support their charity efforts. Goodwill, for example, spends more than 80% of its revenue on job training programs for veterans and people with disabilities. Plus, thrift stores often give shopping vouchers to partner organizations like The Red Cross, which are then distributed to people in need.

6. Churches

The final entry on our list of where to donate baby clothes is one of your local churches. Many congregations run clothing drives to support families in the community and would appreciate your donation. Some churches even have their own baby banks, so call a few religious organizations in your area and see who accepts infant apparel.

Hopefully, we’ve helped you figure out where to donate baby clothes to make a difference in your community. Are there any organizations or charities we missed? Let us know in the comments!

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

January 22, 2025 | Leave a Comment

If you find it difficult to talk to your children sometimes, you’re not alone. Around 70% of parents say they struggle to meaningfully communicate with their kids. Children have developing brains and smaller vocabularies than adults, so it can be hard to bridge the gap and relate to each other. Plus, younger children often have trouble expressing their emotions and tend to melt down, making calm discussion a challenge. Luckily there are effective communication books that can help you build rapport with your kids and set boundaries without yelling. Check out five of our favorite titles below.

5 Effective Communication Books

1. How to Talk So Kids Will Listen Series

The How to Talk So Kids Will Listen series can help you navigate discussions with your child at every developmental stage. There are separate books about communicating with toddlers, talking to kids ages 7 and older, and supporting angsty teens. The authors also wrote about how to motivate your child to succeed in school and speak to kids when they’re having a meltdown or tantrum.

Parents say that the strategies in these effective communication books have helped them learn to acknowledge their children’s feelings. Validating their kids’ emotions has improved their relationship and reduced familial stress. The book series has also enabled parents to avoid yelling when they get overwhelmed or frustrated. The authors present alternative ways for caregivers to set boundaries, express their needs to their kids, and foster cooperation.

2. The Whole Brain Child Series

The Whole Brain Child series centers around fostering healthy brain development in your child, which makes it easier to have positive conversations. Authors Siegel and Bryson have written multiple effective communication books together, including The Whole Brain Child, No-Drama Discipline, and The Yes Brain: How to Cultivate Courage, Curiosity, and Resilience in Your Child.

The Whole Brain Child explains how to help your child build healthy coping skills and resilience during tough, emotional moments. The book is based on modern neuroscience, so it has lots of research-informed methods to improve communication between you and your child, even when they’re having an outburst.

The Yes Brain Child is all about fostering a cooperative, “yes” mindset in your child. Helping them remain open to new experiences will make everything from bedtime to stepping outside of their comfort zone easier. Last but not least, No-Drama Discipline can help you define your discipline style and set clear limits with your kids without yelling or reprimanding them.

3. How to Talk to Kids About Anything

One of the most effective communication books for parents is How to Talk to Kids About Anything. We all know that kids ask a lot of questions, some of which are difficult to answer. When your child starts inquiring about hard topics like divorce and money, this book will equip you to navigate the conversation in an age-appropriate way. How to Talk to Kids About Anything also includes useful tips, case studies, and even scripts to help you find the best words to explain tough realities to your child.

4. Raising Good Humans: A Mindful Guide to Breaking the Cycle of Reactive Parenting

Everyday life is busy and hectic, especially when you have kids! It can be tough to keep your cool when your child refuses to get ready for school or melts down in the checkout line. Raising Good Humans discusses mindfulness strategies to help you regain your composure during stressful moments.

Calming your nervous system will enable you to talk to your child in a calmer, more productive way. One parent said the book was so impactful it made her cry. Once she implemented the author’s tips, she immediately noticed a difference in communication with her child.

5. Talk with Your Kids: 109 Conversations About Ethics and Things That Really Matter

Some children have a hard time opening up, especially during the turbulent tween and teen years. One of the most effective communication books to spark conversations with older children is Talk with Your Kids: 109 Conversations About Ethics and Things That Really Matter.

It contains conversational prompts to encourage thoughtful discussion about ethical issues, such as bullying, war, lying, and more. This book will help your child define their values and articulate their positions in a logical way. It can also help you and your child connect, understand each other, and deepen your relationship.

Effective communication books can help you navigate everyday stressors with grace and improve your relationship with your child. Which books have leveled up your parenting skills? Let us know in the comments!

Motivating Teens with Inspirational Quotes: The Path to Financial Responsibility

January 22, 2025 | Leave a Comment

how much money you keep — Image Source: Pexels

Recent studies have shown that over half of teens feel unprepared to finance their futures. Many high school students are worried about the cost of attending college. Facing such a large expense early in life can feel overwhelming or even discouraging. To help keep your child motivated, here are some inspirational quotes for teens about money. Sharing these nuggets of wisdom with your child will encourage them to keep being financially responsible even when it’s hard. Although your teen may not see the results of their hard work immediately, their efforts will pay dividends in the future.

5 Inspirational Quotes for Teens About Money

1. “It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.” —Robert Kiyosaki

Our first inspirational quote for teens about money comes from Robert Kiyosaki, author of the bestseller Rich Dad Poor Dad. Once your teen starts researching careers, they’ll realize that most jobs don’t pay six figures. If they get discouraged, use this quote to remind them that their salary doesn’t have to limit their financial success.

It’s possible for average-income earners to save and side hustle their way to financial security. Working hard, being frugal, and investing regularly are positive habits that can help anyone achieve their money and career goals. Teens who play their cards right and start saving early could even create generational wealth for their families.

2. “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” —Epictetus

If your teen is jealous of the luxurious lifestyles they see on social media, send them this quote by Greek philosopher Epictetus. This saying highlights the benefits of frugality and gratitude. Being happy with your belongings and circumstances leads to contentment and fulfillment, which is its own kind of wealth. People who chase after material possessions often feel empty and unsatisfied because what they have never seems like enough.

3. “A Rich Life means you can spend extravagantly on the things you love as long as you cut costs mercilessly on the things you don’t.” —Ramit Sethi

Many teens don’t want a restrictive budget holding them back from experiencing life. Ramit Sethi’s balanced approach to finances may appeal to young adults who still want to have fun while saving for the future. He believes that everyone can live a rich, fulfilling life regardless of their salary. To that end, he recommends spending roughly 50% of income on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings and investments. Since teens usually don’t pay many bills, they can allocate extra funds to savings and get ahead financially.

Additionally, Ramit’s advice about reducing spending on things that don’t matter can motivate teens to be more frugal. Once they realize that cutting out takeout could help them afford the wishlist items they really want (like their dream car), they may happily embrace financial responsibility.

4. “Every time you borrow money, you’re robbing your future self.” —Nathan W. Morris

Sometimes teens don’t fully consider the future consequences of their actions. To someone who’s just turned 18, credit cards can feel like free money because the payments aren’t due right away. Luckily sharing this quote with your teen and explaining how interest works can help them understand the true costs of debt. Realizing that the average APR for credit cards is around 20% will motivate them to pay cash whenever possible.

5. “The more you learn, the more you earn.” —Warren Buffett

Finally, the last inspirational quote for teens is about the value of lifelong learning. Education shouldn’t stop once young adults graduate from college. Continuing to upskill and grow their knowledge base will help them advance in their career and climb the pay ladder. Remaining curious about the world can also help young adults identify potential business opportunities. Mark Cuban suggests reading widely to grasp the challenges different industries face and spark product ideas.

What are your favorite inspirational quotes for teens about money? Let us know in the comments!

5 Characteristics of a Good Parent for Raising Financially Savvy Kids

January 17, 2025 | Leave a Comment

If you want your kids to grow into financially savvy adults, it’s important to start educating them about money early on. However, teaching kids about money isn’t easy and requires these 5 characteristics of a good parent. Money is an abstract concept that can be hard for kids to grasp, so it takes a special approach to instill good financial values. Here are some tips to help you pass down financial knowledge to the next generation.

Raising Financially Literate Kids: 5 Characteristics of a Good Parent

Here are the 5 characteristics of a good parent — Image Source: Pexels

Creative

Some kids aren’t interested in money, so may need to find creative ways to get your children excited about finances, such as play-based learning. For example, running a pretend grocery store can help young children understand the cost of food and the purchasing power of money. Older kids may enjoy playing family board games like PayDay, Monopoly, and The Game of Life, which impart crucial financial lessons.

It’s also important to find creative ways to instill good financial habits. Providing your kids with opportunities to earn an allowance can teach them the value of hard work. To motivate them to start building a nest egg, consider matching a percentage of their savings. You can also encourage them to set financial goals and help them make a plan to achieve their savings targets. You could even do a no-spend or pantry challenge as a family to make saving money fun.

Honest

Opinions vary on whether or not you should discuss the household budget with your kids. Some parents believe that exposing kids to adult money matters could stress them out. However, others argue that shielding your children from financial realities like bills and debt leaves them unprepared for an independent life.

Luckily it’s possible to strike a balance between the two. You can be honest about your financial situation without overwhelming your kids by keeping the discussion age-appropriate. Younger kids can handle being told that the toy they want isn’t in the budget right now. Tweens and teens may be ready for conversations about tougher topics in preparation for adulthood, such as student loans and job loss.

Responsible

Model good financial behavior — Image Source: Pexels

Next on our list of 5 characteristics of a good parent is responsibility. You can’t expect your kids to become financially savvy if you aren’t prudent with your own money! It’s important to model positive financial habits like paying bills on time, avoiding debt, saving and investing regularly, and practicing frugality.

Although your kids will learn just by watching you, try getting them involved in the process of running a thrifty household. For example, you can clip coupons together and explain what sales circulars are. Teach them how to compare the unit prices of products at the supermarket and find the best deal. It’s also wise to pass down practical, money-saving skills they’ll need in adulthood, such as cooking and home improvement.

Entrepreneurial and Adaptable

Entrepreneurial mindset is one of the 5 characteristics of a good parent — Image Source: Pexels

Young adults often rely on side hustles to get by, including 70% of recent college grads. For that reason, it’s essential to teach your kids to be adaptable and entrepreneurial. You can encourage your child to develop a business mindset by helping them identify earning opportunities, such as babysitting or selling their art. You can also lead by example and work on developing multiple streams of income to build financial resilience.

Patient

Last but not least, patience is one of the 5 characteristics of a good parent who’s raising financially savvy kids. Money is a complex subject, so children usually need lots of repetition to wrap their heads around it. You might have to teach them the same money lesson multiple times for it to really sink in. Explaining abstract concepts like compound interest and index funds could take a while, so remember to be patient with your kids while they learn the ropes.

As they grow and begin to spread their wings, they may make some financial mistakes. Instead of shaming them, help them understand where they went wrong in a nonjudgmental way. Providing gentle correction when they mess up (and positive reinforcement when they succeed) will help guide them toward the right financial path.

How do you teach your kids financial literacy? Share your tips in the comments!

Affordable DIY Kids Crafts Supplies You Can Buy Today for Endless Fun

January 16, 2025 | Leave a Comment

DIY kids crafts are not only fun, but also beneficial for your child’s development. Many crafts improve fine motor skills and help kids cultivate a creative, problem-solving mindset according to Scholastic. Plus, bringing projects to life gives kids self-confidence in their abilities and talents. Although art supplies and classes can be expensive, there are cheap DIY crafts you can make at home, such as clay ornaments and friendship bracelets. If you’re on a budget, check out our list of affordable DIY kids crafts supplies below.

DIY Kids Crafts That Won’t Break the Bank

Bracelet Making Kit

Making friendship bracelets isn’t just a DIY kid’s craft—it’s a fun and relaxing hobby for teens and adults too. Thanks to Taylor Swift, many music fans exchange colorful bracelets at concerts and festivals. So the whole family will have a great time creating custom jewelry that they can keep or swap with others.

If you’re on a budget, check out this affordable bracelet-making kit from Dowsabel. It has everything you need to get started, including 4,500 clay beads, clasps, charms, scissors, string, and more.

Building and Painting Kit

Building and painting kits can help your child develop fine motor skills while cultivating their creativity. Putting together wooden models is a fun way for kids to improve their hand-eye coordination. Your child will also enjoy customizing their toy with colorful paint and stickers that express their personality. Plus, they’ll be able to play with it once they’re done crafting, providing hours of entertainment.

There are many different types of models, including race cars, dinosaurs, and even marine animals. So you’ll definitely be able to find a kit that matches your child’s interests. However, keep in mind that a model with small parts could be a choking hazard for younger kids.

Spirograph

Spirographs offer kids a window into a fascinating world where art and math collide. Spirographs are curved shapes that follow the basic principles of geometry. Kids can create them using a spirograph kit, which comes with plastic wheels and rings to help them draw intricate designs. The kit also contains colorful pens, sheets of drawing paper, and a guidebook with step-by-step instructions.

This DIY kid’s craft was popular in the 1960s and has stood the test of time. You might’ve even had a spirograph set when you were a child!

Air Dry Clay

Air-dry clay is ideal for DIY kid’s crafts because it hardens and holds its shape. Your child can use it to sculpt ornaments, small figurines, trinket dishes, fairy houses, and more. You can also find fun tutorials online, such as this dyed pasta mosaic that’s set in self-hardening clay.

The best way to get started is to purchase an affordable set of air-dry clay like this one from Fenmay. It comes with 36 different colors of clay and various sculpting tools, allowing your child to bring their vision to life.

Tape

Tape probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of DIY kid’s craft supplies. However, duct tape can be turned into many beautiful, practical objects, from wallets to bracelets to bow ties. Duck Brand has hundreds of craft ideas on its website, including cute holiday decorations like this Valentine’s Day wreath. Duck brand tape comes in adorable patterns like checker, leopard, and tie-dye, allowing your child to create a colorful work of art.

Kids can also play with painter’s tape and use it to make a racetrack for toy cars. Or try outlining a hopscotch court on the floor for hours of indoor entertainment on rainy days.

Dot Markers

Dot makers are fun — Image Source: Pexels

Are your kids bored with regular drawing supplies like crayons and colored pencils? Check out these dot markers, which have a large, round sponge tip. The special dauber creates a big circle when pressed on the page, giving your child’s art a unique effect. The markers are even waterproof, making cleanup a breeze. There are lots of free dot activity printables and coloring sheets online, so this is an affordable DIY kids craft.

Pipe Cleaners

Last but not least, pipe cleaners are a great addition to your stash of DIY kid’s craft supplies. They’re easy for little hands to bend into a wide variety of shapes, such as flowers and hearts. The fuzzy texture also provides a pleasant sensory experience for kids of all ages. You can get a pack of 200 multicolor pipe cleaners for the price of a cup of coffee, so this activity won’t break the bank.

What are your favorite DIY kid’s crafts? Share your project ideas in the comments below!

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

January 13, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Unfortunately, financial education isn’t required in all public schools. So your kids may not learn the money lessons they need to know in the classroom. Luckily there are books about financial literacy for kids to fill in the gaps and teach your children about budgeting and investing. To set your kids up for financial success, check out the 10 best money books for children of all ages below.

10 Best Books About Financial Literacy for Kids

1. Investing for Kids: How to Save, Invest, and Grow Money

This finance book for preteens covers investing concepts such as compound interest, risk, and diversification in an entertaining way. The humorous writing style and cartoon illustrations help keep young minds engaged. There are also interactive games, discussion questions, and exercises you can complete with your child to ensure these important money lessons stick. The authors even provide side hustle and investing ideas that kids can pursue to start building their wealth early.

Overall, Investing for Kids receives 4.7 stars from happy customers. One glowing review says the book is “great for kids and adults alike,” because it’s easy to read, interesting, and informative. You can grab your copy here.

2. Finance 101 for Kids: Money Lessons Children Cannot Afford to Miss

Wealth generating activity book — Image Source: Pexels

Finance 101 proves that financial literacy for kids doesn’t have to be boring. The book contains funny illustrations, impactful quotes, and real-world examples that will capture your child’s attention. Instead of focusing on one topic like investing, Finance 101 discusses a wide range of financial concepts, including credit scores, debt, international currencies, basic economics, and charitable donations.

Amazon reviewers give the book an average of 4.7 stars. A satisfied customer says the book is a “fantastic resource.” It uses “relatable examples, clear explanations, and practical tips” to explain important topics like budgeting and saving. The book even helped spark family discussions about financial goal-setting! Click here to pick up a copy of Finance 101 for your household.

3. Evan-Moor Financial Literacy Lessons and Activities

Evan-Moor publishes activity books that focus on financial literacy for kids. There are several editions for students in different grade levels, including middle school, first grade, and third grade. Each book contains real-world lessons, vocabulary lists, games, and math exercises. Your kids will learn valuable skills like how to do taxes, balance a budget, tally up a shopping cart, and more.

These workbooks all receive 4.6 to 4.8 stars on Amazon. One happy parent says the book “gives realistic lessons that kids need to know, such as having a bank account, paying rent, getting a loan, etc.” Grab a copy of the fifth-grade version here, or one of the other editions above!

4. Humble Math – Money and Financial Literacy

Need a book about financial literacy for kids 12 and up? Check out Humble Math, which provides 100 days of money management lessons for teens. Topics covered include responsible spending, business basics, simple and compound interest, and sales and discounts. Plus, the book dives into various types of loans, such as mortgages and term loans. This will help your child understand student debt before they head off to college.

Customers give Humble Math a solid 4.5 stars. One reviewer says, “This is my favorite math workbook from the Humble series! I really like how it teaches consumer math and personal finance concepts.” Snag a copy for a teen in your life here.

5. What Is Money? Little Economists

Did you know that kids start grasping basic money concepts between the ages of 3 and 4? For that reason, it’s never too early to start educating your children about finances. This book by Kelly Lee is the perfect introduction to financial literacy for kids ages 3 to 6. It’s a storybook that follows a bunny named Charlie as he learns where money comes from and why he should save it. Charlie has multiple piggy banks for different goals, demonstrating the importance of financial planning to kids.

This adorable picture book has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. After reading it, one child was “excited to spend money on a toy, share money with an animal shelter so they can buy dog and cat food, and save money.” We call that a success! Grab your own copy here.

6. Robot Finny’s Big Money Adventure

Robot Finny’s Big Money Adventure is an illustrated storybook suitable for ages 8 to 12. This fun financial tale teaches older kids the value of money and the importance of making wise financial decisions. It also encourages kids to reach for the stars, set big-money goals, and give back to their community.

Reviewers give Robot Finny a whopping 5 stars. A mom called the book a “game-changer.” It helped her child “not only grasp the concepts of saving, budgeting, and responsible spending but also apply them to earn her first dollars.” Check out what all the hype is about!

7. Think Like a Boss Kids Edition: 47 Money Making Ideas for Young Entrepreneurs

Financial literacy for kids isn’t just about saving money—they also need to learn how to earn it. Think Like a Boss Kids Edition will turn your child into a budding entrepreneur by giving them over 47 fleshed-out business ideas. The book also explains the key ingredients of success, provides business advice, and offers tons of encouragement. Your child will feel like they can achieve anything after reading it!

Think Like a Boss currently has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. A happy customer called it a “shining five-star beacon of inspiration and practical guidance.” So you won’t regret adding it to your cart!

8. Kyng & Kyren’s Generational Wealth Building Activity Book

Father-son team Kyren and Kyng created this activity book to teach kids about building generational wealth. This age-appropriate resource introduces kids to financial independence and fiscal responsibility in a digestible way. By completing fun mazes, crossword puzzles, coloring sheets, and mini-lessons, your child will learn how to leave a financial legacy.

Kyng & Kyren’s workbook has a rating of 4.9 stars, making it one of the top titles about financial literacy for kids. One reader says the book is a must-have because it’s “easy for my son to understand and the activities are fun to do.” Check it out here.

9. Financial Literacy Series by Money Mentor Publications

This series of financial literacy books will grow with your kids, teaching them everything they need to know to be self-sufficient adults. Over the course of three books, your children will learn about financial scams, college costs, budgeting on a tight income, taxes, and more.

The books have an average rating of 4.9 stars and receive top marks from parents. A satisfied reader says the series provides the “life skills needed for adulthood,” in a format that’s easy to read and entertaining.

10. 108 Financial Literacy Flashcards

If your child has trouble reading full-length books, these flashcards may be more accessible. This deck will introduce your child to important financial vocabularies like equity and dividends. Each card has a text definition and a picture right beside it, making complex financial terms easier to understand. This deck of cards has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and is a “great tool to teach your children about financial literacy.” You can grab your set here.

What are your favorite financial literacy books for kids? Share your recommendations in the comments!

Understanding the Costs of Early Childhood Special Education and How to Save

January 10, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Estimates suggest that raising a child with special needs from birth to adulthood can cost upwards of $2.5 million. Thankfully there are publicly funded programs, grants, and other types of assistance that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. For example, state-run early childhood special education programs can help babies and toddlers with developmental delays build language and motor skills. Children who receive early intervention are less likely to need support services later on, potentially saving you thousands down the line. Here’s how to get your child the help they need without breaking the bank.

How to Save on Early Childhood Special Education

If your child isn’t hitting important developmental milestones, they may need additional support to catch up, such as physical or speech therapy. Starting interventions early before your child enters school can set them up for academic success. However, the cost of private services is out of reach for many families. Private providers may charge $100 to $200 per hour or more. If you have insurance, it may help cover the cost of medically necessary services. Below are some additional avenues to explore.

Publicly Funded Early Childhood Special Education Programs

Public school is a great option — Image Source: Pexels

According to the CDC, early childhood special education programs are currently available in every state. Children with special needs can receive support services for free or at a reduced cost. Some states charge nothing, while others may require you to pay a sliding scale fee based on your income.

To determine your child’s eligibility, you can either speak to their pediatrician or arrange a developmental evaluation through the state. If your child is under the age of three, you can call your state’s early childhood education program to get an assessment. Kids older than three can be evaluated by the local school district even if they don’t attend classes there.

Apply for Grants

applying for grants can help lighten the load — Image Source: Pexels

Many nonprofit organizations offer grants to help parents cover their child’s healthcare costs. Although you won’t have to repay these funds, you may be required to use them for specific purposes, such as assistive devices or medical bills. Keep in mind that some grants may only be available to children with certain conditions or families with limited incomes. Before you spend time filling out an application, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the grant. Below are a few organizations that may provide aid, but keep in mind that funds are limited.

The M.O.R.G.A.N. Project
The Federation for Children with Special Needs
Autism Speaks and Autism Care Today
Disabled Children’s Relief Fund
Different Needz Foundation

Research Community Resources

Your community is here to support you — Image Source: Pexels

There may also be nonprofits in your local community that provide various services to kids with special needs. For example, Extra Special People in Georgia runs affordable summer camps and after-school care programs for kids with disabilities. Some churches have food pantries, transportation services, and respite care programs to help members in need. Many communities also have assistive device exchange programs to make it easier to afford medical equipment. Googling “resources for disabled children” followed by your location can yield helpful search results and services.

Take Advantage of Tax Credits

Find tax credits that will benefit you — Image Source: Pexels

Parents of disabled children may qualify for certain tax credits or deductions. You may be able to deduct the cost of prescriptions, travel to and from appointments, medical equipment, and necessary home modifications on your taxes. There are also tax credits you might be eligible for, such as the EITC for Parents of Children with Disabilities or Child or Dependent Care Credit, which helps offset childcare costs.

Consider Applying for Benefits

Being a caretaker is valid — Image Source: Pexels

There’s no shame in applying for benefits if you need them. Caretaking responsibilities often make it difficult for parents of disabled children to earn sufficient income. Depending on your salary, you may qualify for programs like Medicaid and CHIP, which provide free or low-cost health coverage. If your child is considered disabled, you may be eligible to receive SSI payments from the Social Security Administration as well. Other programs to look into include food stamps and TANF, which provides emergency financial assistance. These programs can reduce the strain on your budget and help you afford the therapies your child needs.

Early childhood special education can be expensive, but luckily assistance is available. Grants, state-run programs, and community resources can help you cover the cost of the support services your child needs. Do you have any strategies for saving money on medical costs? Share your tips below!

How to Make Family Bonding a Priority in Your Busy Schedule

January 8, 2025 | Leave a Comment

In the hectic rush of daily life, it can be difficult to find time for family bonding. Because everyone is busy with school, work, and extracurriculars, you have to be intentional about scheduling family activities. Creating shared calendars and reprioritizing your schedules can help you carve out quality time to spend together. Here are six tips to help you foster connection with your kids and make time for family bonding.

6 Ways to Prioritize Family Bonding

Create a Shared Calendar

Have one family calendar so you never miss an important event — Image Source: Pexels

When the whole family is busy with appointments and extracurriculars, it can feel impossible to connect. Creating a shared calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules can help you carve out free time to spend together. Google has a family calendar that allows both parents and kids to set up and edit events, which makes it easy to coordinate with each other. Once you have an understanding of everyone’s commitments, consider scheduling a weekly family bonding session. Setting up a standing appointment to play board games or grab lunch will help you deepen your relationship with your kids.

Cherish the Everyday Moments

Its the little moments that well hold on to forever — Image Source: Pexels

Everyday activities like getting the kids ready for school and cooking dinner can feel rushed and hectic. However, being mindful during these moments and trying to cherish them can help you feel closer to your kids. Even busy mornings and evenings may offer opportunities for family bonding. During long drives to extracurriculars or nightly family dinners, you can ask each child about the high and low moments of their day to connect.

Getting your kids involved in meal prep and chores in age-appropriate and fun ways can also foster connection. For example, you could create a cleaning playlist to dance to while you all tidy up. Making chores a game by setting a timer and racing to see who can clean up faster can turn mundane household tasks into family bonding time. Cooking is also a great way to bond with your kids, enabling you to pass down treasured family recipes and share your culture. Focusing on being more present in daily life will help you cultivate special moments and family routines that your kids will remember.

Create Family Traditions

Family traditions can cement your bond and lead to years of joy — Image Source: Pexels

Creating annual or seasonal family traditions will help you mark and celebrate the passage of time together. For example, during the fall you could head to your favorite local pumpkin patch and make a delicious pie afterwards. In the spring, you could observe the equinox and welcome the new season by planting seeds together in the garden. The warm summertime weather provides many opportunities for family bonding. You could take a trip to the beach, go camping, pick strawberries, or even enjoy an annual family picnic.

Establishing family rituals gives your kids something to look forward to and helps create treasured memories. You can even get your kids involved in choosing which traditions to adopt and repeat.

Leverage Technology

utilize technology to stay connected — Image Source: Pexels

Screen time can sometimes get in the way of family bonding. However, there are ways to leverage technology to improve your relationship with your kids. Playing video games or watching funny viral videos together can help you laugh with and relate to your children. Creating a family group text allows you to check in with each other throughout the day and even share memes or inside jokes.

You can also use apps to establish shared hobbies. For example, Duolingo and Babbel can help you learn a new language together. Fitness apps like Pokemon Go and Zombies Run can encourage physical activity while fostering family bonding.

Technology also allows you to bond with relatives who don’t live nearby. Scheduling a regular Zoom call with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins can help your kids feel connected with their extended family. You can also make use of websites that allow you to play board games virtually with loved ones, such as Board Game Arena and PlayingCards.io.

However, it’s also important to know when to put your devices away. Watching too much TV at night or using phones at the dinner table can stifle conversation and impede connection. Although technology can be leveraged to create family bonding time, kids need face-to-face interactions without screens too.

Say No More Often

Say no to outside distractions when making time for family — Image Source: Pexels

If there isn’t enough room in everyone’s schedules to slow down and enjoy family bonding, you may need to start saying no to new commitments. Although extracurricular activities teach valuable skills, it’s important for kids to have downtime too. Paring back sports and lessons can prevent your family from feeling overscheduled and disconnected from each other.

Parents can sometimes stretch themselves too thin as well. To protect family time, you might have to cut back on after-hours work events, PTA meetings, and other nonessential commitments. Although it can be hard to say no, practicing boundaries and making time for rest will set a good example for your kids.

Communicate Openly

Prioritize open communication — Image Source: Pexels

Open, loving communication can help you feel connected to your kids even when you can’t be together in person. Sticking an encouraging note in their lunch box or sending them a thoughtful text can go a long way. If you have to travel for business, consider calling or video chatting with your kids at night to maintain bedtime routines. It’s also important to make it clear that your children can talk to you about anything, including struggles they’re facing. Knowing that you support them in good times and bad will help your kids feel closer to you.

How do you promote family bonding even when you’re busy? Share your tips in the comments!