Thrifty Thursday Tip
This seems like a crazy tip to give, but I have found that I save money now that I give my children an allowance. Although I now have to give them each a chunk (a small chunk, mind you) of money each month, it has changed our interactions in stores and has saved me money.
What used to happen at stores is that it seemed like almost every time we went, I would pick up small things for them when they asked. These were typically very small things, and I would justify it because they’re good kids. They weren’t kids throwing fits in aisles, they were the kinds of kids that would politely ask if they may have that $3 item. I would usually say yes, because “it’s only $3.” This, of course, added up over time.
Once I started handing out allowance, I also stopped buying things for them except for very special occasions or holidays (Easter and Christmas) and birthdays. All of the other things they wanted (wants, not needs) were up to them. Although we will occasionally counsel someone when they are about to spend every last cent they have, we have also allowed them to learn some painful lessons as well. (Like the purchase of a cheap plastic $15 toy that looked a lot more exciting on TV than it actually was in person, for instance.)
Allowances have saved me money, and taught the kids important lessons. That seems like a bonus all around!
Some Great Online Deals
I think this one sounds so cool! Thredup is on online community where you can swap kids’ clothes and toys. What a great idea! Boxes of preloved clothes and toys cost just $5 plus shipping. New members can get their first box for free (just pay shipping)! And, until Thursday night (August 25th – 11:59 pm PST), you can get 30% off on the cost of the boxes of goodies! Don’t hesitate – this ends soon!
Vistaprint is offering a Free Photo Wall Calendar (just pay shipping). This is another great Christmas present idea! (What Grandma doesn’t love a year of looking at her beautiful grandchildren?)
Canvas People is still offering their free 8×10 canvas for new customers. This is a great idea for a Christmas gift! (Or even just to keep for around the house!)
Do you like earning money or rewards from doing things like online surveys? If so, here are some leads for companies that currently are accepting new people: Nielsen Home Scan Consumer Panel, Inbox Dollars, MindField, MySurvey, Toluna, and Vindale Research.
Related posts:
- Thrifty Thursday: Free Amazon Prime Shipping
- Thrifty Thursday: Make Your Own Birthday Party Cake
- Giving Thanks for Blessings in Disguise
- Advent Reflection and Giving Birth In a Stable
- Keeping All of Your Ducks in a Row: Taking Small Children to Mass
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Angie, I got the allowance idea primarily from you, and it has worked out great! I can’t say that we bought that much for our little one, but it does add up. The biggest change has been in her attitude. When she asks for something and we answer with “you can use your own money”, we don’t get nearly as much whining, arguing, etc. I highly recommend!
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