The hidden costs of hiring a babysitter or a nanny are far reaching and complicated. I recently learned the financial impact of this on a personal level and want to share my experience with you. I got really familiar with the IRS’ requirements, taxes, and laws around “household employees.” Let me walk you through it.

Summertime is right around the corner and the kids are getting out of school. Are you excited to spend the summer with them AND are you also looking for fun things to do that are free? I am too. I keep a list for those sunny and warm days and for the rainy and cold days. I hope you enjoy this list of free community activities and have an amazing summer with your family!

Everyone needs to eat and figuring out a budget for groceries can be a challenge. I like to approach my family as a business and understanding our cash flow really helps our family make ends meet. Our family uses these principles to manage our grocery budget:

• Get comfortable talking about money.

• Create and stick to a budget.

• Maintain a consistent grocery order.

• Limit the number of times we order take out.

How much money can a library save you and your family this year? Libraries offer free books, audiobooks, and e-books. They also have toys, tv shows, DVDs, and board games! Libraries connect people, provide learning and exploration, and support the community!

Sensory bins and play are a rising, modern parenting trend. Can we talk about these? Are they worth the money? Let’s have a conversation around: (1) defining sensory development and its importance, (2) defining sensory play, (3) identifying average attention spans of infants and toddlers, (4) sharing average cost of pre-made sensory bins, and (5) providing cost-effective sensory alternatives.

Hi! Who is excited for summer? I am! This pale body really needs some sunshine, warmth, and beaches. My ongoing mental to-do-list is growing with things like purchase sunscreen, aloe vera, bug spray, and other items my family needs for the summer. Before going on Amazon to purchase all these items - let’s take a moment to talk about how to pay for these items. It may not be what you think!