Debt free toddlers

You’ve made it through pregnancy, the birth of your child and have adjusted to life as a parent, and all that goes with it.
This includes the cost associated with the new member of the family. However, even if you have budgeted carefully, as your child grows into a toddler, so do the financial responsibilities of being a parent.
Eunice Sibiya, head of Consumer Education at FNB, said that the first year of your baby’s life has certain cost implications, but between the ages of one and three, your toddler comes with their own unique set of costs. They are more social, attending birthday parties and might be going to a playschool or a childcare centre. The best thing you can do is be financially prepared for them.

Going to not-so-big school
Many parents decide to enrol their toddlers in a childcare facility because their social skills are more established, and many agree that learning through play is beneficial for their development.
Whether you decide on a crèche or playgroup, or both, you should do your homework.
You need to ask whether you and your toddler are getting value for your money.
“Different facilities offer different services. Do you want a day-care, crèche or playgroup? Some crèches ask you to bring nappies and toiletries, while others include this in the cost. Decide on what you want and ask whether you and your toddler can have a trial run.”
If you’re choosing a childcare facility, let your child attend for a week, as a trial run. Also find out if your employer offers this facility. There are usually staff discounts and you won’t have to change your driving routine. You’ll also be close to your little one during the day.
Once you’ve decided on childcare or a playgroup, or both, you need to add this expense to your budget.
“Find out if your child’s school offers any sort of discount for early payment. It’s a good idea to use your bonus to pay for your child’s annual tuition, as you might get a discount if you do this.”
She added that if you have two or more children at the same school, it might be worth asking if there are discounts for the second and third child.

Birthday parties
Once your child starts interacting with other kids, they will be invited to birthday parties and chances are that you will be attending a birthday party almost every weekend. You will also have your own child’s birthday party to plan for.
“When attending other children’s birthday parties, try and find toys that work for both boys and girls, like puzzles, play dough or bubbles. You could buy a variety of these toys in bulk, and even better if you buy them on special. Then bring them out whenever you have a party to go to.”
This will give your budget a break in that you won’t be buying toys every month
“For your own child’s birthday, try to be cost conscious, hosting at home will save money and asking friends and family to help bake will go a long way.
“To be even more financially savvy, instead of asking for presents, ask close family and friends to pay small cash sums to an account that will go towards saving for your child’s education. You will be surprised at how quickly these small amounts add up over the years, and you will also be surprised at how relieved adults will be with this simple option.”

Medical costs
Another cost to think about is that when your child goes to crèche or preschool, their immune system may be compromised due to being exposed to the outside world.
Their immune systems might still be vulnerable, so bundle them up warmly in winter and if you want, there are immune boosting medications that you can make use of.
It would also be a good idea to double check what sort of medical aid plan you and your family are on. Call your medical aid and perhaps re-evaluate your needs and the plan you’re on.
“As your child grows, their needs change and your budget needs to adjust accordingly. The best way to stay on top of this is to be financially responsible and re-evaluate your budget on a regular basis.”