I want to do everything in my power to help a mom learn how to stay home so that one less child has to be without a parent. Every young child needs a mom to be their emotional support full time. No child should ever be denied their safe space (safe person) because mom has to go out and provide. God knew children needed to be around mom for the first dozen years. That’s why He commanded wives (moms) to be working within the home.

After years of practice here is what I’ve learned so far.

• Ask for cloth diapers at your baby shower. They are a big investment in the beginning but after 2+ years of buying diapers, it is WAY cheaper to start with cloth.
• Never buy new. Look up consignment stores in your area and search through the Facebook marketplace.
• You don’t need a new car. You don’t need a pretty car. Look around on the Facebook marketplace and you can easily find one for 5k that is reliable.
• Cancel all subscriptions. Those small dollars add up.
• Cook during the winter to warm the house and dress warm. Open the windows and run fans during the summer. Keep that heating and cooling bill down.
• Grow a garden from seeds. Also do a seed exchange with someone since you seldom use the whole packet.
• Don’t add on debt by going to college. Follow God’s plan for wives to stay within our homes while the husband goes out into the world and provides. No need to add another debt for him to pay.
• Read Dave Ramsy and start implementing his strategies right away.
• Stock the freezer with pre-made meals to take out in a pinch instead of running for fast food.
• Move to a cheaper area if you need to and downsize your home. It’s worth it to stay home with your kids.
• Have dedicated meatless meal days.
• Toddlers eat a lot of snacks. Find recipes and make your own.
• Pets are crazy expensive. Their food prices have gone up substantially. Vet visits, flea and tick meds, heartworm meds, cat litter, grooming…. Not having animals is one way to save big.
• Stay-cations…. create a home that you don’t need a vacation from.
• Learn to be content. 🫶

I would love to hear any ideas that you would add to this list!!