When you are a stay at home mom and you are budgeting, it’s hard on every member of the family. There may be many things you have to give up in your family budget just so you can stay at home with your kids. No one can take care of your children better than you. For many moms, like in my case. there was no way that I could get a good enough job to pay for the care for both of my kids. I wasn’t willing to work nights while my husband worked days. That left budgeting challenges for my family. Subscribe to Type-A Mom articles

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We had made a commitment about seven years ago that work would never get in the way of our relationship. If that meant we had to give up some things then that was fine with us. At least we would have our children at home with us and we would have each other.

Here are some hints on trying to get through the most amazing part of your life. (When they are grown up you will wish for these days back…or at least that’s what they tell me.)

• Make sure your budget is realistic. If it isn’t you won’t follow it anyways. You don’t have to give in on every thing, just reduce what you spend.

• If you need something, buy it. If you really need something, you shouldn’t deny yourself of it. Make sure you plan ahead for it, and then buy it.

• Live within your means. Put away those credit cards and spend only what you have. If you don’t have the cash, you probably can’t afford it anyway.

• Start to create healthy habits. Don’t go shopping when you are depressed. Give up your bad smoking habit and stop eating at fast food restaurants all the time. When you buy anything, make sure you keep the receipt. You will then be able to look back and see what you spend your money on.

• Beware of the little expenses. They will add up.

• Next time you are surfing the internet, check out the websites that offer free coupons on all kinds of goods. Pick the coupons you want and print them out or have them mailed to your house and it will save you time and money.

• Make a list before shopping. Have a specific list of things that you need so you won’t be tempted to buy other things that aren’t on your list.

• Scope out local thrift stores. I buy almost all my kids clothes second hand. Kids go through clothes so quick they barely even wear them. If you look really good you can find brand names for really cheap.

• Go easy on yourself. If you fall off the wagon occasionally, don’t think that it will ruin everything. Just try harder to not spend so much next time.

Remember, getting used to this will take time but once you get the hang of it you’ll be able to manage. And lastly, remember the saying, “It’s not how much you make, but what you do with it.” It’s so true. You will get through.