Having a baby can be pretty exciting and scary, especially when everyone has a long list of things you should do before you give birth. It can be overwhelming to go through checklist after checklist, when ultimately many of the items won’t help you when the child actually arrives. There are a few things you can do that will help make your journey into parenthood a lot easier once the baby does arrive. These ten tips will not only help make life a little more convenient and relaxed, but can also save you a bit of money, which every new parent knows is a must. So, enjoy your last few weeks of “you time” as these ten tips will help you worry less about what will happen after birth.

1. Freeze Meals
It’s hard to think about eating after you have your little one, especially if you’re a first time parent. Many people go into parenthood believing there will be a slight change in their routine, but not enough to affect something as important as cooking dinner. The first few days home from the hospital may be a bitter wakeup call though. Cooking a meal with a new baby can be a real challenge, especially since it isn’t wise to have the child near the stove while you get to work. So, before your due date, you should take some time to whip together some casseroles or other freezer friendly meals to get you started. Crock pot dump meals are also a lot of help, especially since they require very little maintenance throughout the day. With these meals, all you’ll have to worry about is picking what you’re in the mood for as you spend time bonding with your bundle of joy. Not to mention, it’ll bring down the temptation of fast food or buying high in sodium freezer meals.

2. Choose a Pediatrician
A lot of families go into the hospital without a pediatrician in mind for their new baby. It’s always wise to begin shopping around for a pediatrician well before the baby is born. Midway through your pregnancy is usually a great time to start and will help you feel less rushed about the entire process. When you begin, make sure to check with your insurance company to see if there are preferred pediatricians for you. This will help cut down on bills, so you don’t have to worry as much. You should also spend some time looking at reviews, to see which doctor fits your needs more. A pricing guide is another important aspect, especially when it comes to keeping your budget sorted. Once you have a few pediatricians narrowed down, you may want to ask for a meet and greet. This will help you find the right doctor for you, so you don’t end up with someone pricey in a pinch.

3. Wash Baby Clothes
Another thing you may not have thought about doing is washing your child’s new clothes. It doesn’t matter if they are straight off the rack from the store or hand-me-downs, washing new baby clothes can be incredibly important to your child’s health. Try to find a baby detergent with a mild scent to prevent possible allergic reactions when your child is born. Washing your child’s clothes can really make the whole process feel real though, which may make you feel overjoyed and prepared for your new adventure. The clean clothes will make your child feel more at home right away and will get them used to the smells of the house. It will also soften the clothes so they feel better on baby’s skin.

4. Get Set Up
It’s hard to know when to start working on the nursey, so when it comes down to it make sure you have it up and ready to go before you hit 8 months pregnant. At that point, let’s face it, you’re not going to want to do much of anything. Getting the nursery set up can be a really beautiful experience too and doing it early will give you plenty of time to take breaks if your furniture proves to be particularly frustrating. This alone will prevent you from having to hire a professional to get the job done for you. Another must have item to get ready is your car seat. No new parent will want to be seen fumbling with a car seat before taking the baby home. Take some time to learn the process of fastening and unfastening the car seat fiasco. You may want to take your car for detailing before putting the car seat in. This will allow you one last glimpse of your beautiful car before your new bundle of joy gets a hold of it. With the car clean, practice with the car seat until it becomes second nature. It will save on frustration, especially when it comes to grocery shopping after your child is born.

5. Find Transition Clothes
After your baby is born you may be in between the maternity clothes and the clothes you used to wear. So, before your baby arrives, you may want to check out your closet to see what might be a possible match as you transition. Usually, your baggier tops should do the trick for this period, so make sure to dig deep in your collection of clothes. Yoga pants and sweat pants are also going to be a must as they are comfortable and can adjust to suit your size. By doing this, you should be able to supplement enough to get by without forcing you to spend money on a full transition wardrobe. Of course, you may still have to buy a few items, but if you do this make sure not to spend a lot. You may want to check out clearance racks and thrift stores, as you probably won’t wear these clothes for very long.

6. Deep Clean
You probably won’t need any guidance when it comes to cleaning your home because your nesting instincts should kick in closer to the baby’s birth. However, you may want to get a head start to ensure your house is spick and span for baby’s arrival. One thing you’ll want to do is get the carpets cleaned. This will make your home smell and look better by leaps and bounds, which will be important for your child. Expecting mothers should always be careful when working with chemicals, so if you need to use bleach, try to enlist your partner in these jobs. Organization may be another concept you want to master prior to your child’s arrival. This will make life a lot easier when you come home from the hospital and will remove the temptation of hiring a cleaner to help take care of business.

7. Stock Up On Hygiene Products
One thing you’ll want in the home is hygiene products, so you won’t have to run out and buy more during the first couple of weeks after the baby is born. Your baby will need diaper creams, wipes, soap and lotion to keep them clean and healthy during this time. You, on the other hand, will probably need a whole lot more. You will definitely want some gentle soaps to help cleanse your skin while you heal from birthing your child. Epsom salts will probably become another must to help ease the discomfort. During the first few weeks after child birth, you will do a whole lot of bleeding so you will need plenty of pads and adult diapers to help keep you clean and healthy. You might also want to consider period panties during this time to help save on money.

8. Run Through the Checklist
You probably had a long list of items to pick up prior to your child being born. Although most things are covered, in most cases, a lot of parents tend to forget an item or two along the way. You should make sure to double check your list to ensure you will have everything you need for your child’s care when you leave the hospital. Some of the more important items are bottles, diapers, wipes, a water proof mattress cover and clothes. Ensuring you have these items will help you feel more comfortable when you arrive at home, but it will also prevent you from having to go out in a hurry to buy some of the item, or worse yet, having someone else do it for you. This will ensure you have time to shop around so you get the best possible price around.

9. Treat Yourself
The one thing you should try to do as often as possible before your little one arrives is to have a day dedicated to you. It doesn’t matter what you choose to do as long as it is something you want to do. Many women choose to treat themselves to a day at the spa or simply a day of getting a manicure and pedicure. Some women are more than happy to curl up with a few books they have on their must-read list or to simply lay in bed and binge on TV shows and movies. After all, it may be a while before you can do anything uninterrupted. Another great option is to hang out with some friends. It may be a while before you can have a girls’ night without feeling incredibly emotional about leaving your little one, so make sure to soak up as much friend time as you possibly can. Spending time doing things you want to do will help you feel more relaxed when the baby comes. This will ensure you won’t want to go out on shopping sprees or spend frivolously when your little one finally does arrive.

10. Babycation
Another great thing to do before the baby arrives is to go on a babycation. You may want to do this a few months before your due date so you can fully enjoy the trip. A babycation can be important because it gives you one on one time with your partner. The two of you can relax and enjoy one another’s company before you have a new member of the family to take care of. This will help you feel more in tune with each other too, which is always great when you are about to begin a new journey together. You don’t have to go all out on a babycation, so don’t stress about spending a small fortune on the trip. Try to choose something that is going to be fun for the both of you, but won’t leave you feeling uncomfortable as you lug around the extra baby weight. You should also be careful as to the activities you choose as any jolting activities can cause harm to the baby. If you’re getting closer to your due date, then you might want to stick close to home. If anything, you could always get a hotel room and enjoy some room service and the pool with your special someone.

Preparing for your bundle of joy to arrive can be pretty hectic, but you’ll work through and feel all the more excited when your child arrives. These ten tips should help you prepare some of the things you may not have thought of, which could save you a bit of money too. Before you know it, your child will be here and you’ll be pleased with all of the prep work you completed.

Summer is on its way out, so most families tend to choose to do something major over the Labor Day weekend. With the three days off, it can be easy to plan a getaway, but you may sacrifice some serious money to do so. Luckily, there’s quite a few ways to enjoy Labor Day without having to go overboard when it comes to finances. So, you can now get more out of your last minute family time that won’t leave you on the road to recovery until the holidays. With school in full swing this could be the last time to spend some great quality time with the kids without worrying about homework or your own work, so let the good times roll without stressing out.

1. Get Outside
Depending on where you live, Labor Day weekend could be one of the last weekends you get to enjoy some amazing time outdoors. Most locations are still a little warm during the early months of September, but the autumn breeze should be kicking in very soon. This makes Labor Day weekend one of the best times to take in some water sports. Whether it’s swimming or trying out jet skis for the first time, make sure you get in your fill of time in the water to last you until the weather warms up again. Of course, you can always keep it simple by having a water balloon or water gun battle. Another fantastic option is to go camping over the weekend. The fresh air and great outdoors will help you relax while you enjoy family time. While you’re out you may want to try hiking, flying a kite or trying out some sports. All of the exercise will leave you energized so you can take on the challenges of the rest of the year.

2. Clean the House
We all know how it goes. Summer ends and autumn seems to fumble out of our hands and straight into winter. With the fast paced lifestyle of autumn, you may get pretty far behind when it comes to keeping up the house. Not to mention, your house may be a little hectic from all of the summer fun. Thus, it may be a wise idea to spend Labor Day weekend cleaning up and preparing for the upcoming season. You may want to start with going through old clothes, organizing items and creating new ways to keep the home in order on the busy nights. Once you have everything picked up you may want to run through your Spring cleaning routine again. For instance, you should clean behind the refrigerator, flip mattresses and other common items that often get overlooked.

3. Host a BBQ
In true summer fashion, you may want to fire up the grill one last time before the summer comes to an end. This could be the last chance you have to get your neighbors, friends and family together as most people end up incredibly busy once school begins. So, send out some invites and have everyone over for one last shindig to celebrate your friendships and the beautiful weather. You don’t have to spend a small fortune on the BBQ either. For instance, you probably have leftover meat in your freezer that you may have purchased in bulk, so base your meals around the food you already have. If you’re not fully stocked, then ask certain people to bring items to help the party go even smoother. You can even host a potluck to add a special flair to the last BBQ of the season. Everyone will enjoy having the time together, before the chaos of extracurricular activities and the holiday season kicks in.

4. Hit the Sales
Without a doubt, there’s some pretty awesome deals going on during Labor Day weekend so you might want to take some time to check it out. This can be one of the best times to stock up on household essentials and a few wants before the holiday rush begins. Labor Day often offers great sales on mattresses, furniture and household goods, which is great if you’re in need of these items before you begin to blow your budget on holiday gifts. You may also end up finding some last minute deals on school clothes and supplies, so if you haven’t stocked up already it’s a great time to do so. Apart from that, you should check out all summer attire as well as the dreaded white pants you can’t wear again until next year. With a keen eye, you’ll be able to make the most of the sales, especially since this will be the last major sales period before Black Friday rolls around.

5. Become a Tourist
One way to get the most out of the long weekend is to spend some time exploring. It doesn’t matter if you choose your own city or a new one, simply take on the tourist activities to help you relax and have some fun with family. You may find that you discover lots of new things that you may want to return to later in the year. A lot of cities actually host Labor Day celebrations, which can help you have a lot of fun without spending a penny. Between parades and activities, you may find you’re entirely busy all day long which should help you and the family enjoy your Labor Day all the more. Some cities have extraordinary activities, so you may want to do a little research before you choose your future destination.

6. Enjoy a Getaway
You might want to use your extra time to get out of the house and head to a new destination. A quick weekend getaway may allow you to blow off some steam and relax before the year passes you by. There’s lots of ways you can approach a getaway during this time though. If you have plenty of frequent flyer miles hanging out, then you might want to use those on an amazing vacation that will help you have the fun you deserve. There are some pretty awesome deals on flights for Labor Day travel too, so you may be able to get a steal of a deal if you act fast on booking your tickets. Another option is to choose a destination that is a day’s drive or less. This will allow you to drive and save money, which may even help you to discover new locations along the route.

7. Appreciation Cards
Many workers don’t get the luxury of a day off on Labor Day, so you may want to take the holiday to show the children how to show appreciation for those who must serve when everyone else gets to kick back and relax. One simple way to do this is to make some appreciation cards designed to suit each branch. You can make them for fire fighters, policeman, nurses and doctors, or those in the food industry. Kids will have a blast making the cards and they will learn to respect and appreciate those who work to make their life better and safer. You may want to take some of the day to pass out the cards to those that serve, which will allow the children to get a firsthand account of how far a little appreciation can go.

8. Family Camp
If your family is having trouble bonding, or you are just looking forward to some old fashioned family fun then a family camp may be the right choice for the Labor Day weekend. Although family camps aren’t exactly heavily advertised, you should be able to find one for your family without having to spend hours looking. Many facilities, like the YMCA, host family camps designed to strengthen family values as well as the body. Churches also offer family camps, which tend to be a lower cost, especially if they are day camps. With a little research, you may find the perfect camp for your family. However, make sure to act fast because Labor Day is rapidly approaching and you won’t want to miss out on your chance to enroll.

9. Finish Summer Check List
Labor Day signals the end of summer, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on all of those summer plans you didn’t get around to doing. You may want to start with some of the smaller items like water balloon fights, but if you can shoot for at least one large item then go for it. You may even have the family sit around and choose one item on the list to take care of. Of course, this could be an amazing time to complete a project on the house, such as a new paint job. Make sure you have fun with your list though, as this will make the summer magic feel alive again, even if it is just for a few days.

10. Do Nothing
When it comes down to it, this could be the last chance you have to do a whole lot of nothing before life gets really hectic. So, you should embrace the opportunity and ditch then plans so you can keep the long weekend relaxed. You may want to plan a movie day with the family, or simply cuddle up with that long list of books that you’ve been wanting to get around to. Of course, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of snacks of easy meals to make for the family so you won’t have to stress at all throughout the weekend. This can also help the kids relax or spend time with friends before their life revolves around school. If you really like keeping to a schedule then have the family vote on simple relaxation items, so everyone can have some fun while still having a little bit of time to bond. Before you know it, you’ll feel entirely rejuvenated and ready to head back to work or school with a fresh mind.

Labor Day weekend is quickly approaching, so you’ll want to enjoy a little fun with the family. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to spend a fortune though! With these ten tips you should be able to plan a little something fun without letting your budget stand in the way. So, enjoy your long weekend off and celebrate the labor you do every week as well as your well-deserved break.

With the Zika Virus finally spreading in the U.S, many people are frightened that they may be infected by the frightening virus. This has led many people to spend extraordinary amounts of money in order to prevent potential bites. There are many methods discussed online that won’t do a thing to help you prevent bites, so you could end up losing money if you’re not careful. These ten tips will help you feel a little safer while Zika is such a big concern, without forcing you to spend a small fortune. So, don’t stress out just yet, because there are a few ways to prepare for this problem before it comes to your neighborhood.

1. Repellent
Without a doubt, one of the best things you can do is use repellent to keep the mosquitos away. You should always choose a repellent with at least 30 to 50% DEET in order to properly protect yourself from mosquito bites. Of course, you should always make sure to read the instructions for use on younger children. Since the type of mosquitos that carry Zika fly during the day and night, you should always apply the repellent before going outside. If you tend to leave the windows open or your door is frequently opened, then you may want to apply the repellent throughout the day and before you go to bed at night. This should help keep you from being bit, so you can rest a little easier at night.

2. Use Mosquito Nets
Another particularly effective method of keeping you safe from mosquitos is to add some mosquito nets around the home. These are best placed in areas that are open often like screen doors or windows. The extra protection will ease your mind while keeping the whole family safe without forcing you to spend a fortune. You can even apply nets to your front and back doors, but you will have to be careful when entering and exiting, especially with young children. Of course, another effective route is to place a mosquito net over beds. This will allow you to sleep without having to stress about being bit during the night time hours.

3. Still Water
If you live near still water you may want to take extra precautions when it comes to your mosquito problems. Mosquitos love stagnant water, which can be a real problem for those avoiding bites, particularly pregnant women. You can easily avoid these areas though to help provide you with extra protection. Of course, stagnant water in or around your home may cause a problem too. For instance, if you have flower pots next to the home then mosquitos may hang around them, which puts you at risk. Thus, if you’re avoiding mosquitos you may want to skip flowers and other plants this year. You should also look out for leaks near the home which may leave you with puddles that could attract the bugs. Maintaining the home and watching out for issues like this are a great way to keep away from these nasty creatures.

4. Clothing
Even though it’s hot, you may want to choose to wear long sleeve tops and pants to help further protect you from mosquitos. Light weight tops and cotton bottoms could be your solution to keeping cool while protecting your skin. However, some mosquitos can bite through layers such as this, so don’t forget to use bug spray for the extra protection. Workout clothes and clothing that protects from the sun are a great option here, because it is too difficult for mosquitos to bite through these fabrics. Keeping your body temperature down is important when choosing clothes too as an escalated body temperature will attract more mosquitos. You should also choose lighter colored clothing in order to keep cooler and detour bugs.

5. Avoid Certain Locations
For the past year, the news has been broadcasting about Zika with a list of places you don’t really want to go if you want to avoid the virus. In fact, until recently, the only Zika cases were due to travel or sexual intercourse with someone who had traveled to a country with Zika. Unfortunately, mosquitos carrying the disease have been found in Florida now, so it is going to be even tougher to avoid the virus. However, you can still make sure to steer clear from areas proven to have Zika. Places in Africa and South America have been off-limits for quite some time, but now Florida should be on your list of places to avoid. If you’re not sure where to avoid then you can always check up on the website to make sure you’re going to be safe. If you are pregnant and Zika has moved into your area, then you may want to consider staying with people outside of the area until you are out of your second trimester.

6. Contact Insurance
If you’re really worried about the price of staying mosquito bite free then you may want to contact your insurance company. A lot of companies are actually offering to pay for bug repellent in order to keep their patients safe and sound during this risky time. Your insurance may even be willing to provide you with mosquito nets and other ways to protect yourself. However, it does depend on the company, so make sure you call in ahead of time to ask if the repellent will be covered. In many cases, insurance companies will only offer the repellent to women who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. All the same, Medicaid is offering free bug repellant to anyone they cover, so make sure to take them up on the offer, so you have one less expense to stress over in this trying time.

7. Change Diet
As with just about everything, your diet can affect the amount in which you get bit during the summer. Mosquitos are attracted to the CO2 your body produces as well as a high body temperature, so avoiding some foods are a must. Spicy foods are one of the main foods that raises up the body temperature, so if you’re planning on going outdoors you might want to skip out on this delicious treat. Beer, another summer staple, can also cause the mosquitos to bite, so you might want to skip out on drinking at a barbecue or other outdoor activity. Items designed to boost your metabolism are also a no-go, this includes diet supplements too. Some people seem to have good luck with taking B-vitamins though, so you may want to try this out for the summer or just to improve on your health.

8. Do Body Checks
Taking precautions to avoid being bitten isn’t always all you can do to help keep yourself healthy. You should also pay attention to what your body is doing. For instance, one of the symptoms of Zika is the development of a rash. You can use a mirror to check your entire body or ask your partner to do so. You can also check for bite marks you may not have felt. Other than that, you should monitor your symptoms by regularly checking your temperature. If you have a low grade fever, then you may have contacted the virus if bitten. Another symptom is conjunctivitis of the eyes, so make sure your eyes are clear and feeling healthy. You should also move often to make sure you have no joint or muscle pain. Exercise does raise the body temperature for a short while, but afterwards it drops the body temperature, which is great for keeping the bites away Keeping up with your body can help you provide proper information to your doctor, so they can take necessary measures to help your health and the baby’s.

9. Consider Times
If you plan on being outside, then you may want to consider what time you go out. Most mosquitos tend to come out during the evening and remain until sunrise, so you might want to take a rain check on going out during these hours. This will help you avoid the mass majority of mosquitos, but you should always be on high alert. During the day, be aware of your surroundings as the mosquitos that can carry Zika don’t seem to have a preference for when they come out. So, keeping your body safe with bug spray and watching certain areas outside can help you avoid getting bit when you’re out. Of course, staying inside can be one of the best options for those trying to avoid bites altogether. You may also want to keep your windows closed during the evening to sunrise hours to help keep even more bugs out.

10. Talk to Your Doctor
It’s pretty easy to work yourself up into a panic over the Zika virus, but it doesn’t exactly help you when it comes to staying safe during this time. One of your best allies is your doctor who will have a lot more information for you when you pay them a visit. Generally, doctors can help sort out online myths while giving you true advice to keep you safer during this time. Your doctor may even be able to point you in the right direction as to which bug repellent you should be purchasing and using. Of course, if you believe you have Zika then the first thing you should do is make an urgent appointment with your doctor. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and come up with multiple ways to help you get better while offering advice and monitoring for your baby. The doctor will also be able to answer questions and concerns that should leave you feeling a little more secure during this time.

The Zika virus has become one of the biggest fears for pregnant women or those planning a family, so it’s no wonder that people are willing to hand over money in order to protect themselves from mosquito bites. These ten tips should allow you to feel more secure in your health while saving you some money on items you’ll need to keep yourself protected while the Zika virus begins its spread in this country.

Let’s face it, we all want to start the new school year off on the right foot, but more often than not it just doesn’t happen that way. Between getting everyone ready for school and keeping up with a long list of extracurricular activities, by the time the first month of school is over it almost feels like a tornado has disrupted the once functioning home. There are a few ways to keep your groove going during the school year though. Luckily, most of these tricks won’t cost you a whole lot, so you can worry less about your budget and more about keeping the show running until the kids get to enjoy winter break. So, get ready to organize! Your kids and your free time will thank you for it!

1. Time Chart
If there’s one way to keep children from going wild during a schedule change, it is certainly a time chart. Summer has a way of getting children in a relaxed mindset, especially since they don’t have to go to school. By starting up a time chart, they will have to follow the new schedule in order to be rewarded. On the time chart, make sure you schedule in sleeping hours, chore time, homework time and even their free time. You can even have children check off the items they complete, which can be rewarded with treats, extra screen time or any other activities you would like to add to the mix. The more fun you make your chart the more interested your children will be, so use your imagination to spice things up. Time charts also work to help children concentrate on their work, which is perfect for getting them back in the mind set of school.

2. Set Up A Snack Bin
One thing that most kids want to do when they get home from school is to grab a snack. This can often lead to junk food overdrive, which makes them not very hungry for dinner. With a little bit of organization though, your child can be well on their way to eating healthier with little effort on your end. Many parents have started to use snack bins to help children make wiser choices when eating. The bin can be filled with items like fruits, cheese, vegetables, crackers, fruit snacks and so on. Each item can be labeled with a point value and each child can be given a certain amount of points per snack. This will show children that not all snacks are made equal and they should enjoy things in moderation. The snack bin is also easy to pull out from the refrigerator every day after school so you can worry less about whipping up a snack as well as the cleanup from snack time. You can always replenish the bin on the weekend, so kids will be ready to start the week out again.

3. Clothing Prep
When it comes to early mornings, not everyone is in the mood to get it in gear in time for school. This can make getting dressed a battle that seems like it will never come to an end. Luckily, you can take one major step to help make sure the kids are ready to go school every day of the week. If you have a closet organizer this trick will be easier than ever. Simply hang the children’s clothes up in advance so they can pull down a fresh new outfit every day. Shelving is even more beneficial though. With shelves you can place your children’s outfits as well as their socks and underwear into individual shelves. This will take lots of time out of the morning routine, especially when it comes to kids who need several wake up calls. You can even make this task a little fun as kids learn to pick out their own clothes and set them aside for the upcoming week.

4. Set Up Entry Way
Another major problem with the school rush is the entry way of the home often ends up a mess. When kids get home they tend to drop the backpacks, take off their coats and ditch their shoes. This could make your entryway a bit of an eyesore and sometimes even a hazard. Luckily, this area is a cinch to clean up and it won’t harm your budget if you work carefully. Hanging hooks on the wall is one of the best ways to remedy this problem. This will allow the kids to hang up their backpacks and their coats, which will instantly give the home a more organized look. If you can, find a cheap shoe holder to get the shoes out of the way. These can cost as little as $20 and will change the way your home looks and feels. Another option is to build locker inspired storage. This will add a cute vibe to the home while ensuring your kids school items are put away for good. The lockers can be painted to match your décor and the tops can be used for other storage like mail, keys or decorative items.

5. Apps
In this day and age, apps can be your best friend when it comes to so many things in life. One way to keep your life on track with apps is to actually use them to keep up with your schedule. Unlike calendars, apps allow you to go into your calendar and edit the information as it changes. You can also set up reminders to help you keep track of your child’s big assignments and so much more. There are also many apps to choose from when it comes to helping your child with their homework. No matter the level, you should be able to work up some pretty amazing explanations without having to have a lot of books around the house. There are even apps to help you keep track of your students’ grades, activities and parental events at your child’s school. In fact, many schools are even coming up with their own app to help keep parents organized and in the know.

6. Create Homework Center
There’s tons of distractions for kids when it comes to doing homework in the house. From the TV to their toys and siblings, it may be better to set up a homework center to make the children feel like they are in a school setting when they go to work on their homework. This can be easily done without spending a small fortune too. For instance, you can whip up a desk large enough for all the kids using an old door and some shelving. You can even make separators to ensure the children aren’t distracted by other’s work. Apart from that, setting up school supplies is another must for this area. You can use old recycling to store many of the items as well as children’s pencil boxes from previous school years. Another great option for the homework center is to add a special place for children to place their completed work so you can go over it before it gets handed in at school.

7. Food Prep
There is no argument about it, weekdays are pretty much chaos when it comes to everything. So, one of the best things you can get into is food prepping. This is also a great way to save money as you can make ready-to-go meals out of a select few ingredients. Of course, the time you will save doing this will be payment enough if you have a few minutes to kick back and relax every evening. After you finish your dinner every night, you can use the leftovers to create lunches and maybe even breakfast for the family, which saves quite a bit of time in the morning. You may find that this will also use up a lot of your leftovers, so you won’t have to worry about wasting as much food. Even if you don’t use leftovers for your children’s lunches, then you may want to go ahead and start the process of getting lunches together so the morning is as busy.

8. Incentive Board
If it’s hard to keep your kids motivated for school and chores, then an incentive board is sure to help you out. This board is filled with all of the items your child must do and a few extras to give kids extra things to do for more points or money. Every item on the board can have a point value, so when the child finishes up everything they are supposed to do they will earn a certain amount of points. These points can be used for prizes, but you can also require a certain number of points to be completed in order to have every day luxuries, like internet, screen time, dessert and so on. The board will help keep everyone in the house motivated, which is sure to keep everything running like a well-oiled machine. Incentive boards can be arranged based on your own needs, so get creative with it.

9. Pride Bulletin
Your children are going to bring home lots of great art and school work that they’ll want to show off to the world. So, you might want to make yourself a pride bulletin in order to give your children the boost of confidence they deserve. You can easily make your own amazing bulletin board, but if you’re in a hurry then you can buy one for a great price. The pride bulletin can be a great way to sort through your child’s school work too, as they won’t need to keep it all throughout the school year. When the semester is over then you can take down the work and put it in a special book so the children can remember their achievements.

10. Keep Lists
When it comes to staying organized during the school year, one of the best things you can do is keep up with your lists. You can keep a small tablet with you to jot down things when they come to you, or you can open up a word document on your phone to ensure you always have your lists with you. One of the major things to keep track of during the school year is groceries, because running out of the supplies you need can really set you back quite a bit. Another important list is your child’s assignments. Although it would be nice for them to entirely rely on themselves to get a project in, it’s not exactly likely. Thus, keeping a list of the big items is sure to help prevent you from working until midnight on a project due the following day. Other than that, you should keep lists for playdates, your child’s friends’ parents’ numbers and even your children’s teacher’s contact information.

The busy days of schools are sure to leave you scrambling if you’re not organized. These ten organizational tips should help you enjoy more of the school year without forcing you to go crazy over the mess. With a little organization, you may even feel like the school year is going a bit smoother than the years of past, which is sure to take some of the stress off of your plate.

With school starting back up, you may already be worrying about your student when it comes to reading. Whether your child is going to school to learn the basics of reading or they already know how to read, there’s lots you can do to improve the way your child feels about reading. Of course, there are many programs to help your child become an expert reader. All in all, programs can cost an arm and a leg especially if you’re looking for a tutor or professional program. This may end up hitting your budget hard, but there’s lots of other options that are a whole lot easier on your budget. With these ten tips, you should be able to get your little one on the right path to reading with joy in no time at all.

1. Technology
These days, technology is a huge deal when it comes to education. You can easily find lots of software to help your little one become the reader you’d love them to be. Generally, this software doesn’t cost a fortune and you can find many off-brands that offer the same learning techniques as the big names. These programs are designed for children learning how to read as well as those who may want to improve their reading skills to help with grades and reading enjoyment. Software isn’t your only option when it comes to these programs. You can also find lots of assistance when it comes to apps on your phone or tablet. Most apps are totally free, but even the apps that do charge won’t leave you feeling the burn of the price. Online games are also a great option for children. Parents can find many resources online to help out too.

2. Library
Many families often overlook one of the greatest resources of all; the library. The library is a great place to go when you are looking for books, but it can also come in handy with inspiring children to read. Some libraries even offer reading programs to help children who may be struggling with learning to get the basics of reading down. This is a great resource for children who may not be able to afford a program to help them achieve success. Of course, story time and other activities offered at the library are also designed to help children find a passion for stories and reading. One of the best ways to utilize the library is to go as a family though. If children see you looking at books and reading, then it is going to become a part of normal life for them. This, in itself, will help children feel the importance of reading even at a young age.

3. Read to Them
One of the first steps in teaching your child to read is to read to them. You can start doing this as early as pregnancy to help cement the habit and keep it going until your child is old enough to read to you. Reading to your child helps develop a love of stories and words from an early age, which expands vocabularies and inspires your child to pick up a book and read earlier. This will make the daunting task of teaching little ones to read a lot easier as they will feel like it is a natural part of life. Reading in excited voices is a great way to keep children engaged in books as they move forward to the schooling years. They will immediately associate books with entertainment, which will help them keep away from the TV for longer periods of time. Once your child gets the basic aspects of reading then they will have a whole new world opened up to them, which should help make the habit of reading something that sticks with them for the rest of their lives.

4. Ask Your Child to Read to You
Like reading to your child, asking your child to read to you will help inspire them to read more. When your child begins to read their first words, you can easily ask them to read to you a couple of times a day. May it be their homework sheets or a simple book you picked up for them, doing this will make your child feel incredibly special. Encouragement as they learn is key and nothing will work better than giving them your undivided attention as they share what they’ve learned. You may find having your child read to you to be relaxing too, as it is a time of the day where you can all sit together and listen to the progress your child is making. With a little reading out loud every day, your child will gain confidence that is sure to help them move on to larger books and eventually read silently to themselves without having to be told to.

5. Flash Cards
While your child is learning to read, nothing will help quite as much as flash cards. You can purchase these in stores, but you can also make them yourself using index cards. You can use your child’s vocabulary list from school to start out, but as they progress you may want to add some of your own words to the mix to give them a little extra to study. This activity can be carried out on the weekends and school breaks too, in order to help make the information more concrete for your child. Flash cards won’t just help boost your child’s reading skills and vocabulary, it can also help them become great spellers depending on how you operate the cards. Not to mention, beginning your child on the flash card method early on, will help them create great studying habits that can help them become successful in school until they graduate from college or graduate school.

6. Make it Social
Most kids love to be around other people, which poses a problem with a solitary activity such as reading. There’s a few ways you can make reading more of a social get together though. For starters, you can have the entire family sit down once a week and talk about what they are reading. This allows everyone to share their feelings and talk about books like an important and interesting topic. Another idea is to start a junior book club. You can ask friends, family and neighbors to join in to make reading fun for everyone. During the book club meetings, you could create crafts and snacks based on the book of the month to make the story come to life even more. You should also add in exciting games and discussions about the book. This should help your child feel more engaged and they may be willing to read more simply because they look forward to the book being discussed and celebrated with friends.

7. Interest Based Reading
One major problem with getting kids into reading is the fact that they aren’t interested in some of the books that the school sends them home with. This can cause children to instantly find reading a bit boring, which may make them feel like they don’t want to do it. If you take your child to a bookstore and let them pick out books, then they will instantly feel like they are getting what they want. This will even help them build new interests as they span out and try new things. Not all children are interested in fiction though. For these children, you can always find books on sports, science or history. This should help them feel like reading has something to offer them, which will keep them passionate about their new found hobby.

8. Play Games
There’s a lot of games you can play to help your children get even more out of their reading process. For starters, games like scrabble which encourage spelling are perfect for those starting out. They even have games like Scrabble designed for younger children. Another great concept is coming up with your own games. You can easily turn games like tag or charades into something based on your child’s favorite books. Mix and Match games as well as Memory or Pictionary are a breeze to transform into literature based games too. If you’re low on ideas, then you can find a wide assortment of crazy games online that are based on specific books or even reading in general. You can even have kids tell their own stories as a game. This is sleepover favorite for many kids and helps teach the art of the story at a very young age.

9. After School Programs
If your student is struggling to keep up with the class, then you may qualify for an after school program. Many schools offer these to students who need a little extra help, so you might want to ask your child’s teacher if such a program exists in your school. Some schools will even allow children to work harder on specific subjects during certain periods of the school day, which may make your child feel less overwhelmed with the extra work. If your school doesn’t offer such a program, then don’t fret. There are many professional facilities that aim to help children become a success in reading. Some programs will even offer scholarships which will help ease the burden of helping your child learn to read efficiently. You may have to do a lot of research to find just what you need, but in the end it will be worth it when you see your child smile when they finally have the art of reading down.

10. Reward Programs
Some children work on incentives, so try to find as many as you can to get your child working hard to reach their goal. Many schools utilize their own rewards program now because it is proven to help students get on the right path to reading. You can easily talk to your school about their program to see if there is anything you can do to help out. Children will respond positively if they see a parent helping out. Outside facilities also offer such programs. For instance, the library is known to keep kids reading through the summer. Pizza hut is also a big donator and they offer children a free personal pan pizza after so many books have been read through their Book It program. With a little research you can probably uncover many programs, so follow what your student needs to become a success. You may even utilize your own rewards program with incentives like snacks, extra screen time and even chore free days.

Making sure your child feels confident when it comes to reading is one of the most important things you can do for them. Their education will flourish with strong reading skills and they will feel learning is fun and exciting. With a few simple and frugal tips you should be on your way to keeping your child happy as they tackle the world of reading and find their own personal success.

It’s hard to stay in the same place as all of the people you love, because everyone’s lives are constantly moving and changing. Of course, there is a great way to show you still care about the people you miss by simply working up a care package and sending it their way. This concept is especially popular when it comes to new college students or family members who serve in the military and have been deployed. The only problem with care packages is they can quickly add up in price. Luckily, there’s a few ways you can avoid some of the high prices so you can put even more love into every package you send.

1. Shop Bulk
When it comes to care packages, one of the best things you can do is shop in bulk. Your favorite bulk store is sure to help you find just what you need for your care package. The best things to buy here are snack items, especially if they come in individual wrappers. If you can find all of the recipient’s favorite snacks, then you will have a great care package in the making. The best thing is, you can always put in just a few of the items, so you can send more later on without having to spend any extra money. You might want to look at shipping supplies, like packing popcorn or bubble wrap. This will help keep everything secure, so delicate snacks will make it in one piece. You may even be able to find the recipients favorite hygiene products in bulk, so you can save some of the items to send at a later date. These bulk buys are sure to save a small fortune, while making your care package hobby a little easier to keep track of.

2. Utilize USPS
Believe it or not, but you do have an ally on your side when it comes to sending care packages, especially if they are going to deployed service members. USPS has made it simple to get your package out at a price that won’t leave you hurting for money. One of the best things to utilize is the flat rate boxes that the post office offers at no extra crate. No matter how many heavy items you stuff into the box, you’re going to end up paying the flat rate for it, so enjoy having the consistent price when it comes to shipping. If you plan on sending to a family member that is deployed then you can call a special hotline to request a military care-kit, which will provide you with everything you need to send items abroad without ever having to leave your home. These kits are even free and will make your service member feel special when they receive it.

3. Pack Carefully
One of the worst things to hear when you send a care package is that items just didn’t make it. Thus, packing carefully is essential when it comes to sending out a care package. It’s pretty hard to work around items like chips and other delicate snacks, but if you can pack these items with bubble wrap or around clothing items. This should help keep them in one place without ending up with too much damage. Glass items are also a tricky item to pack, but again you should always try to wrap with bubble wrap or around soft items. Also, make sure to pack the glass in a bag so that if it does break the contents then glass won’t ruin everything else in the package. Items like personal hygiene products or chocolate should always be packed in a ziplock bag to prevent spilling or melting on other items. Last but not least, if you have notes or cards you should also pack these in a ziplock bag, just to add an extra layer of protection. If you follow basic packing rules you should be set for a successful package.

4. Letters/Drawings
One of the most important things to add to a care package are letters, drawings, special notes and anything that adds a personal touch to the package. This is especially important for family members who have children they may not get to see while they are away. You can pack lots of these items without having to worry about weighing down your box too much, which is always a plus when it comes to sending things off. Letters are great because you can always write several to suit any occasion. For instance, you can label letters with themes, like mood booster, laugh-worthy, big achievements and so on. This will help the recipient find even more comfort in the box you carefully packed for them. Drawings don’t have to be too intricate either, as long as it is obvious that the child took some time to sit down and draw something special. Many service members love to keep this close by to look at when they are feeling homesick.

5. Home Touches
If the family member has been away from home for a while, then it may be wise to pack something that feels a little like home. For service members, it can be as simple as a freshly washed t-shirt or one of their child’s outfits. If you can’t send clothing items, then packing the items with dryer sheets will create the same affect and can help make the homesick feelings subside for a little while. Some college students crave the same kind of items and many won’t be embarrassed if you send one of their favorite stuffed animals fresh from the wash. However, some students you will have to be sneakier with by simply washing a t-shirt you feel they may be missing. Another option is to send small books of photos to remind the recipient of home, or even a local item that can’t be purchased in their current region. This is actually fairly easy to accomplish and will allow you to really get creative.

6. Organize
When it comes to keeping your package efficient, it’s best to try to organize as best as you can. Organization is key in packages, so you can fit in the most items for your money, especially if you’re sticking with flat rate shipping boxes. You should always look for items that can easily be stacked on top of other items or even inside other items. For instance, if your student needs a storage box for school then you can always place some of the snacks inside of it to make even more space for other items. You should also look at packing the box like a game of tetras, so you can maximize the area you have to work with, while ensuring your care package brings plenty of joy to the recipient.

7. Gift Cards
Sometimes sending money to college students can be a bad idea, especially if you know it is going to go towards unnecessary items, like new wardrobes or videogames. So, sending a couple of gift cards can really make a huge difference in a student’s care package. You don’t have to spend a whole lot of money either. For instance, you can buy a small gift card for a little treat at a restaurant or some new music from their favorite online store. Another option is to load a grocery gift card, so your student can get more food for the month or the snack they need for exams, if they’re living in the dorms. The best thing about gift cards is they take up such a small amount of space that you won’t have to get rid of some of the desired items to make room for them. Of course, if you are sending gift cards, you might want to make sure your care package has insurance on it, so you don’t lose the money if the package goes missing.

8. Personal Care
It’s hard for some students and service members to get the hygiene products that they need, which makes these items a great option to toss into a care package. It may not be efficient to pack up large items like bulk shampoo and other soaps, but there are some items that are pretty efficient. Bar soap is easy to pack up and can be used for long periods of time, which comes in handy for those on a budget or not near a store. Toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss are also pretty easy to send and will help you feel reassured that your loved one is taking care of their oral hygiene. Feminine products and other random toiletries are easy items to pack too. You might also consider the season. If it’s cold and flu season it may be wise to pack cough drops, cold relief medicines and vapo-rub to help your family member get over potential colds.

9. Know What Can Be Packed
No matter what company you’re shipping with, there are some things that can and can’t be shipped. It’s always wise to know these restrictions before you pack everything up and go to send off the package. One of the main restrictions has to do with food and drinks, so make sure you aren’t breaking a rule here. It wouldn’t be very frugal to have to repack everything at the post office and lose out on the items you spent money on. Plus, getting a fine for packing something you shouldn’t have also won’t help your budget in the slightest bit. Luckily, you can go online to find out if the items on your mailing list are okay to send, which should help you choose wisely when it comes to planning out your package.

10. Skip Pre-Packaged Kits
If you’re new to making care packages then it may be tempting to grab a pre-packaged kit to send to a loved one. Although this is more convenient when it comes to time, it won’t really do you any favors. For starters, you can easily pack all of the items in a prepackaged kit for less, so you won’t be doing your budget any favors when it comes to this purchase. You will also miss out on all of the personal touches that you can put into a homemade care package. So, rather than buying one of the kits to send off, you may want to just observe what is in it and use it as a guide to help you create your own amazing care package.

Sending some love to friends and family that aren’t close by can be a great way to keep the bond going. However, care packages aren’t exactly the cheapest thing to send off, especially when you factor in shipping costs. Luckily, there’s a few ways you can cut corners and save some big money on your act of kindness.

It doesn’t matter if you’re shopping around for your own dollhouse collection or you have a child that can’t get enough of this classic toy, it is way too easy to spend a small fortune in the doll house industry. Between shopping for pre-made houses and accessories, or building your own, you’re looking at a larger bill than you may have expected. Thankfully, there’s a few ways you can avoid the high price and still get everything you need to create the perfect doll house for your child or your own personal collection. So, don’t fret next time you shop around, because these ten tips are sure to lend a helping hand.

1. Sales Kits
One of the more popular ways to enjoy a doll house is to build it on your own. These kits can be pretty pricey though and may leave you feeling like you should just buy a premade dollhouse. However, kits can really save a small fortune if you grab them on sale. Like clothes and other items, you can find many items on sale because there is always a new season of items popping up. So, you might want to consider shopping the clearance area to see if there is an older doll house kit to suit your needs. Many mainstream hobby shops make it easy to get items on sale though. For instance, some of the most popular hobby stores offer major coupons that can take up to 50% off an item. This can be a huge money saver in the world of dollhouses, especially if you like to frequent the store for accessories and upgrades. You can find these coupons in stores, online or even in the company’s newsletter.

2. Refurbish
Another option for a doll house is to find an old one at a flea market or thrift store. Often, these doll houses aren’t quite ready to be played with or stored in a collection because they need a little work. However, the basic foundation is already there for you to work with. This can take a substantial amount of money off of your initial price tag. With an already built doll house in your possession, you will only have to worry about finding new carpets, paints, furnishing and any other repairs the doll house needs. You may even feel a great sense of accomplishment when you refurbish this home to suit your needs. Plus, you’ll have recycled an item, which is great for the environment.

3. Recycle
Speaking of recycling, you can do a lot of this when it comes to making your own home. For instance, if you’ve recently done some remodeling, you can easily take wallpaper or carpet scraps to use in your doll house. Even if you haven’t gone through a remodel, you can possibly find scraps at home improvement stores or even charities like Habitat for Humanity. Make sure to ask someone who works there if they are available. Sometimes people will hand them over for free because they will just end up in the trash anyway, while others will charge a small fee. Either way, it’ll help take off some money from your budget. Scrap fabric is also a great thing to use for dollhouses as it as so many functions. You can put it on the walls, use it for furniture and linens or even make doll clothes out of it. Of course, going through your own recycling bin can help out too. You can quickly make a doll house and furniture out of cardboard, which is sure to make any child happy.

4. Build Furniture
Like building the dollhouse, if you put some energy into building furniture for the doll house, you can save quite a bit of money in the long run. There’s lots of kits available to make the furniture and most are quite easy to do. However, some of these items can be pricey, so you may want to wait for sales. Another option is to completely wing it. You may enjoy coming up with your own plan for furniture and it will give the dollhouse a unique look that no one else can rival. You can easily accomplish this using scrap woods, some basic tools and paints or stains. Your imagination is the limit when it comes to these items, which will make the project a lot more fun. You can even use old doll furniture and turn it into something even more fantastic to make your doll house stand out from all of the rest.

5. Shop Off Brand
When it comes to the doll house world, there are plenty of big name brands in both pre-made and DIY brands. Unfortunately, these brands tend to cost a bit of money when it comes down to buying everything you need for the doll house. Of course, like most things, there are also many off-brands that can save you a small fortune. These brands still offer high quality items that will suit your collection or your child’s playtime though, so don’t hesitate to try them out. You don’t have to only shop one brand either. You can easily work with a few different brands to get the doll house home of your dreams. If your dollhouse is for younger children, then you may want to choose off-brand plastic items as they will last longer until the child can grow into a dollhouse that may be more fragile.

6. Consider Age
Building a doll house can be a whole lot of work, so age should always be considered when it comes to the planning process. If you’re working on a doll house for a child to play with then you may want to consider going the easier route and buying something plastic for them to use. Younger children tend to be rougher on doll houses and toddlers tend to chew on items. Thus, plastic is a much safer option and won’t leave you replacing the items the very next day. Of course, if you’re building a doll house for an older child or a collector then the sky is the limit. You can use just about any material you want without having to worry about limitations. You can also do this for young children to receive later on in life. However, if you choose to do this you may look for protective coverings for your doll house that will keep it dust and damage free before it is presented to the recipient.

7. Skip the Kit
If you’re feeling a bit on the creative side, then you may want to consider skipping the doll house kit altogether. You can easily make your own doll house simply by winging it. This is especially the case when it comes to using old furniture. For instance, if you have an old dresser that you aren’t using you can easily strip it down and transform it into a multi-story doll house that your child will go crazy over. The best thing is, you won’t need a whole lot of work to do so. Most of the transformation will be purely aesthetic. A smaller item like an old TV stand also makes a great apartment, which is perfect for kids who like to play with Barbies or other similar dolls. If you’re looking to make it a mansion, then a larger entertainment center is right up your alley! Of course, you can always use items like scrap wood to go all out and come up with your own ideas for a doll house, which may make the project a lot more fun for you.

8. Auctions
One great way to get a great price on a dollhouse is to check out the auctions. If you’re not looking to spend a whole lot of money you might want to check out online auctions first. There, you should be able to find a great deal on older doll kits or pre-made doll houses that are slightly used. This is perfect for collectors who love to put in a little work into older doll houses. However, you may find vintage doll houses that are perfect for kids too, like the classic Dream House. When it comes to local or large scale auctions, you will probably run into some items that are pretty pricey. This is usually because they are very old or very famous. Either way, it can be a great way for collectors to boost up their collection without having to pay the same price as a direct seller would charge.

9. Join a Group
With technology a daily part of our lives, you may want to utilize it in order to save money on all of your doll house needs. There’s lots of groups to join on social media that can truly help you get the supplies you need for all of your doll house accessories and upgrades. Most of the groups don’t charge you a penny, but offer a wealth of help. For instance, a lot of people in the group are willing to share how they achieved certain looks and styles, which will open up your creative skills. Many people in the group are also willing to trade or sell leftover items at a cheaper price. This can help you find some pretty awesome things that you may not be able to fund in your local store. Apart from that, many people will share when they see a sale or something that other group members might be interested in. With all of the support, you’ll probably feel like you can take on anything in the doll house world. Plus, you can always get feedback on your crafts to help you improve your art form.

10. Sell Them
If you love to make doll houses then you may actually end up spending a pretty penny on them, especially if you make more than one a year. Even collectors end up with doll houses they may not want to keep in their collection. There’s a great solution to this problem though! You can easily hop online and sell the items, which will certainly help you earn some money back, so you can get more out of your investment. Consignment shops are a great place to try to sell your items, but you could also open up your garage on weekends to see if you have any takers. Otherwise, you may have to take to the internet to see if you can sell off your items. This may mean special shipping will be needed, but if you can turn a profit you can always use it to make your next masterpiece.

Working on a doll house or purchasing your first for a child can be a great experience. There’s so many options these days that you will be surprised by what you end up with. You don’t have to fear the price tag though. These ten tips should help you find the perfect way to save a bit of money, so you can get even more out of your doll house experience.

With school starting up and summer coming to an end, you may be trying to come up with a few things to do to end the summer with a bang. If you’re struggling for ideas, then you may want to try out kayaking. Of course, kayaking can also be a great hobby to enjoy throughout the year because if offers so many options. However, kayaking can be a touch on the pricey side if you’re not careful about your expenditures. There are many ways you can save some money on kayaking though, so you can have lots of fun without having to count the pennies.

1. Consider Usage
A lot of people want to go out and spend a small fortune on all of the gear they will need to go kayaking. This can be a huge waste of money if you’re just starting out though. If you aren’t sure if kayaking is something you want to do frequently then you might want to consider renting instead of going all out. Once you get a better feel for how often you plan on going then you may want to consider shopping around for your own gear. This will give you a better idea of the items you will need and what you may want from your gear. For instance, if you plan on using your kayaking items for fishing then you may want to buy a specific type of kayak. Using your kayak on the river calls for more safety supplies as well, which you should keep in mind for the entire family.

2. Shop Last Season
When it comes to buying new things, you’re always going to be better off looking at the older models opposed to the newer ones. Just like clothing, there are seasons for kayaks and buying from last season won’t leave you skipping out on anything too spectacular. Generally, the kayak business comes out with new models every year that may have one or two upgrades to work with. These aren’t really essential upgrades and won’t hurt your safety rating if you don’t go for a new model. So, before you decide to make your move on something top of the line, you might check out the clearance rack to see if there is anything from last year that strikes your fancy. You may find you can’t tell the difference in the new models, which will save you a whole lot of money. After all, many of the changes made to kayaks through the seasons are actually the color of the boat, so don’t let aesthetics rope you into spending a small fortune.

3. Go For Name Brand
Saving money usually means avoiding name brand companies at all cost. However, when it comes to something like kayaking you may not want to skip out on some of the bigger brands. Unfortunately, off brand kayaks can be flimsier and not as safe as some of the big name companies, which can be really bad for even experienced kayakers. Even if you do find an off-brand kayak that has a good safety rating, the chances are that it won’t hold up too long, which means you probably won’t get your money’s worth. The best thing you can do is try to research brands to see which one will provide you with the most for your money. This should help you find a kayak that is both secure and will hold up to the extreme sports you choose to use it for.

4. Look For Warranties/Rebates
One of the key ingredients to shopping for pricey items is to make sure they have a warranty behind them. Many kayaks will come with warranties if you’re willing to pay a fee to get them. This will come in handy, especially if you end up in rough waters or your kayak becomes weaker over time. You can also find warranties on safety gear too. For instance, if you end up dropping your helmet then you should be able to get a new one thanks to warranties. Getting a warranty on things like life vests are also important, especially since these items can get work in quickly and are true life savers. There should be many rebates floating around in the kayaking world. If you go to a sporting goods store, then a salesperson should be able to show you items that have rebates attached to them. However, not all stores concentrate on this. One of the best things you can do is browse around online to see if the store offers any rebates online or if the manufacture has them to offer. Once you find a good one, make sure to fill it out as soon as you make your purchase so you don’t end up forgetting.

5. Research
Not all kayaks are made the same, nor are the accessories that go along with them. So, before you head out to shop for your kayak, you may want to hop online and do a bit of research to see what you can come up with. One thing to consider when you’re researching is what type of activity you plan on using your kayak for. If you like to stick to fishing, then there is a specific type of kayak you can buy to make it easier on you. Of course, if you plan on barreling down the river then you’re also going to need a stronger kayak that can hold up to the wear and tear of the water. You should also start researching some of the other accessories you will need to make your activity work well too. By doing this, you’ll end up buying what you need, rather than having the wrong supplies when you leave to have some fun.

6. Get Safety Gear
Many people spend a lot of their money on the kayak and fun accessories but tend to skip out on all of the safety gear. This can be a huge mistake in the long run as your safety gear is the most important thing to have on you when you go kayaking. Helmets can be a huge life saver when it comes to any form of kayaking, but you should buy a sturdy one if you plan on doing extreme sports as this is essential. Even if you’re going to keep it relaxed a basic helmet is needed, just in case there is an unexpected fast current or your boat capsizes. A life jacket is another must have item that is needed any time you get in the water, no matter how strong of a swimmer you are. Other survival items like water, flint and flares may be important too, if you are kayaking in a remote area.

7. Know Your Locations
One of the most important things you can do before kayaking is decide where exactly you will be going. In the US, there are lots of great places to take to the water, but not all locations are created equal for every activity. For instance, if you just want to go fishing, you should probably avoid any area that has fast rapids or may put you in danger when you originally planned on relaxing. The opposite can be said if you want to enjoy an extreme sport as a fishing hole just won’t meet your expectations. Luckily, there’s lots of information online that can help you make the right choice when it comes to your fishing hole. Before you know it, you’ll find an assortment of awesome places that will suit your needs, while keeping your thirst for adventure alive and well.

8. Share
If you love to kayak, but don’t have the budget to buy your own or rent as often as you’d like, then you may want to consider sharing one. You can easily ask a friend, family member or even a group to split the costs with you, so you can all enjoy the fun of kayaking without having to spend a fortune. This may be a little difficult at first, but if you plan trips together you can have even more fun with the kayak. If this doesn’t work out, then you can always work out a schedule so everyone has an equal amount of time with the kayak. Of course, make sure you get all of your plans in writing, so there’s no problems later on down the line.

9. Second Hand
When it comes to starting out, you may want to consider buying your gear second hand. This will give you time to get a feel for exactly what you want out of your kayaking hobby. Second hand items are already a little broken in and allow you to learn from them without having to stress as much about damaging the items. As you learn, you’ll be able to pick up new tricks that will keep your future purchases in check. Plus, second hand items are usually only a fraction of the price, especially if you find them in a thrift store or a garage sale. If you know someone who may have old kayaking gear, then try to ask them if they’d be willing to sell it. You may find yourself a better deal than you ever imagined, which is always great for beginning a new activity.

10. Take Lessons
In an ideal world, we would be able to go out and do whatever we want without having to spend hours trying to figure it out. When it comes to kayaking, the best thing you can do is take lessons to ensure you don’t end up damaging yourself or the equipment you spent so much money on. When it comes to kayaking, you have a lot of options for lessons, so make sure to look around and find something that suits your needs as well as your budget. You should be able to find a Groupon or other social media coupon if you’d like to enjoy lessons with friends or family. Apart from actually learning how to use the kayak, you may want to jump on board with figuring out some of the safety information you will need in case you get stranded somewhere. You can never be too prepared for the unthinkable, so make sure you have all grounds covered before you jump full force into your new hobby.

Kayaking can be a world of fun and a great adventure for the entire family. However, you don’t have to let it become a money pit in your life. These tips will not only help you save a pretty penny on your upcoming adventure, but will help keep you and your family safe as you tackle something new. So, stop fretting the money aspect of kayaking and let the fun overtake you before the long days of summer are over.

The heat is gaining momentum and so are shopping prices, but this August doesn’t have to be a money pit for you and your family. Between back to school sales and trying to keep up with household needs, you may find August to be a bad month for your spending budget. Luckily, there are a few items that will make your home more comfortable without forcing you to spend a small fortune. These ten shopping items will ensure you get the retail therapy you love without forcing you to buy into the hot prices of August. So, run to your favorite air conditioned store and take advantage of the low prices in these categories as August takes over your world.

1. Tax Free Days
Most states will host a tax free day in the month of August to help out families who are trying to gather up all of the school supplies and clothes that the children will need for the new school year. This can be tough on many families, so adding a tax free weekend to the mix is a great way to cut down on the price. Different states offer different discounts though, so you may want to look around to see when your state will be offering the tax free day. You might want to plan on hitting up the back to school sales as the already discounted prices will mix well with the tax free purchase. Shoes and clothes are another must during this weekend, so don’t forget to shop for those items if you can too. Some things will still be taxed, so make sure you know everything that applies to the rule before you end up going on a shopping spree.

2. School Supplies
Tax free days aren’t the only time to jump into the school supply shopping mode. Items should be hitting the shelves at a low price in late July and early August to suit the late August and early September school re-openings. Most school supplies should be offered at a discounted price during this time, which is great for families who are trying to save some money on school supplies that can run you a fortune if you’re not careful. Of course, you may want to shop with your child’s school list so you’ll know exactly what to get and what not to get. Following your child’s teacher’s guidelines and enjoying the back to school sales, is sure to keep you right on top of your budget before the school year is over. This will be a huge burden off of your shoulders as well as your wallet.

3. Shoes
August is a great time to buy shoes. If you pick out sandals then you can show them off for at least another 6 or more weeks. If you buy boots then you’re prepping yourself for the cold winter that is supposed to be heading our way. No matter what shoe you buy, you’re to be getting a good deal too. Many stores put a wide variety of shoes on sale for a variety of reasons. For instance, children’s shoes should be hitting the sales rack to help move them for the upcoming school year. You might find a whole lot of “Buy One—Get One” sales during this time simply for the back to school season. Summer time shoes will be hitting the clearance rack because people will be more interested in suiting their autumn needs. Winter shoes from last season will also be on sale, because most stores will want to make room for the new popular looks. So, shopping around for shoes in August can be one of the best ideas you’ve ever had. You’ll be reminded of your brilliance and shopping savvy every time you admire your new closet full of shoes.

4. Travel Arrangements
Although it may be too late to consider booking a last minute summer getaway, you might find that planning a quick autumn retreat may be right up your alley. Right now, you can get an amazing price on autumn airfare and other travel arrangements, but you’ll have to act fast. Many other people are booking these low cost getaways too, so make sure you get ready for a little fun before others beat you to it. If you can’t get the time off for a little autumn adventure, then don’t let the holiday seasons slip through your fingers either. If you can already confirm you have time off during the holiday season, then jump on the vacations as soon as you can. Make sure you grab your airline or other transportation tickets, as well as book a hotel and a rental car if need be. Doing it now will ensure you don’t end up rushed when the season gets really busy. You also won’t have to worry about not booking in time to get a spot. You may even consider making a reservation for anything you may want to do during your holiday getaway.

5. Jeans
Your whole family probably wears jeans, so you may not want to miss out on the sales. Usually, you can get a pretty good deal on jeans during the month of August because of all the fantastic back to school sales. This is the perfect time to stock up for the whole family, so you may want to consider putting back some money to make such a purchase. If you have young kids, then you may want to be careful about the jeans you buy. Purchasing jeans a little too big can give your child plenty of room to grow into them. Not to mention, you can always hem the jeans for a short while and let them out as your child’s growth spirt takes over their wardrobe. Make sure you try on all of your jeans though to ensure they are a good fit for your body, so you won’t buy a pair you feel uncomfortable in. You might also want to buy a size or two larger for your child if they are in a stage in which they are growing frequently, which will help with expenses later in the school year.

6. Organizers
If you like to keep a clean shop, then you’re in luck in the month of August. Usually shopping during this time can help save you a small fortune, because many stores will put organizers on sale with the other back to school items. These items can be used for just about anything though. Many people grab them work on their office, while others pick them up for the home or dorm. Of course, since dorm rooms are entirely different looking, so you can find them for a wide assortment of rooms. You can also find incredible organizers for the desk too, which should help keep many things in your life in order. Of course, if you love to follow DIY tips then you probably already know you can use a lot of these organizers as other things, which can help you sort your kitchen and bathroom, as well as many other clever ideas.

7. Ceiling Fans
For most people, August is still incredibly hot, which may leave you running your air conditioning on full blast most of the time. This can be a huge problem for your bills. There is a great solution to the problem though! You can always pick up a ceiling fan to help cut down on the bills. Normally, ceiling fans won’t cost a lot in regards to electricity, especially if you find an Energy Star fan and you use ecofriendly lightbulbs. Fans are easy to install too and more often than not improve the value of a home. The best news is ceiling fans will be on sale during the month of August, which is sure to help out your budget. Ceiling fans aren’t just perfect for keeping you cool in the summer though, they can also help distribute warm air in the winter too, which is sure to help cut down on your heating costs.

8. SPF Makeup
When it comes to shopping for must-have items, you may want to jump on the sales for SPF Makeup during the month of August. These items usually go on sale during this month because many people feel they don’t need SPF makeup year round. This can be a huge mistake though, because UV rays can do damage to the skin all year long, so you should always have the protection from the sun even when the sun isn’t out. If you buy this makeup in bulk, then you can rest assured that you will be prepped for looking good all year long. Of course, you may not want to buy too much as makeup does have a shelf life.

9. Outdoor Play Gear
Most people have already bought everything they wanted to buy for the summer months, so the items will be hitting the clearance shelves in the month of August. This is the perfect time to start working on your kids a playground, complete with a sandbox, playset and other large toys. You should also consider grabbing some sports equipment like basketball hoops. Items like croquet and other sports are great too because you can use them throughout the autumn and set them up for spring time fun. Apart from that, you may be able to find a huge deal on swimming pools and accessories, which is sure to make the rest of this summer as well as next summer amazing. Before you know it, you won’t have to worry about prepping for next summer in the slightest bit.

10. Mattresses
If your bed is feeling a little bit lumpy then you might want to jump on some of the mattress sales that will be coming up this week. Although it may be a little unusual, as mattresses tend to be on sale during Memorial Day sales, many retailers are jumping on the early Labor Day sales too in order to move more stock. This works out to your advantage though as you will be getting a new mattress to help you sleep sounder as the weather begins to get incredibly cold. This is sure to make you feel a lot better about spending money and will help you get rid of such a huge purchase before the holiday season kicks in.

The month of August is a great time to hop on board some pretty amazing deals. These ten categories should leave you jumping for joy over the amazing sales happening in the month of August. Before you know it, you’ll end up ready to take on the rest of the year, simply because you managed to suit your budget and get some pretty awesome items that will leave your family happy and well-supplied.