Because my husband and I both own our own businesses, neither of us truly has a “steady” paycheck. There are months when we feel very blessed, and months when we wonder where all of that money just went.
For that reason, we’ve recently become much more aware of how we’re spending our money. We’ve researched family finance planning and saving, and are doing what we can to save money when possible. We’re also teaching our children as we go, because we want them to understand the value of money, the value of hard work, and the importance of being careful with money.
I believe that chores are a great way for children to learn the value of work and to contribute to the family and household. My siblings and I always had chores, and I really think it taught us important skills that we have used as adults – both with handling our responsibilities and giving us a great work ethic. It also taught us to respect the value of money and to save for the things we really wanted. So there was never any question once our children got older that my husband and I would give them chores to do around the house.
I remember when my oldest was a little girl I would print our chore charts that we would hang on the fridge and put little sparkly stickers after each chore was completed. Now though, it seems the kids are more interested in doing everything electronic so I was excited to learn that there are apps they can use for chores. Some apps not only keeps all of the kids’ chores in one place, but also teach them how to set short- and long-term goals, as well as the value of a dollar, providing instant satisfaction for a job well done.
As the children are all old enough now to be responsible for tracking and completing their own chores, my husband and I are looking forward to using the apps with them.
I wanted to share some of the family finance and saving tips we’re implementing in our household.
Family Finance and Money Saving Tips
Plan Ahead
Whether you’re traveling, shopping or even just making dinner, spend time researching your purchases and choose the options that make the most sense financially. Don’t pay for gas and wear and tear on your car if traveling by bus or train can save you money. Plan out and cook meals for the week so you’re not tempted to eat at restaurants on busy evenings.
Don’t Pay Full Price
Whether you’re shopping for large items like home appliances or smaller items for the family, avoid paying full price. Go online and compare prices from competing brands, look for online or in-store discounts, and check coupon sites for discount codes.
Pay the Bills
Pay your bills on time to avoid late fees and accruing interest. Keep track of when the bills are due with a free online budgeting program or even just a spreadsheet on the fridge and make sure you pay the bills on time. Use cash or debit cards whenever possible to avoid paying interest from credit cards.
Stop Buying
Consider whether you or your family members actually need what you’re planning to purchase. Instead of more toys on birthdays and holidays, consider giving personal gifts of time. Make a booklet of coupons that the kids can choose from with fun activities like playing a board game with Mom and Dad or being able to choose the menu and help make dinner for the family. The kids will love being able to choose their favorite activities, will get to spend more quality time with Mom and Dad, there will be less “stuff” in the house, and you’ll save money!
Reward Yourself
Take advantage of rewards programs whenever possible. Preferred customer programs can help you save money on everything from groceries and health care products to travel and home improvement products. Most take only minutes to set up and will help you earn rewards and cash back on purchases you make throughout the year.