Life with little ones can be tough and pretty busy. The choices you have to make when there are two little ones running around are tough too. For instance, if you already have two, do you really want to make another one? It’s true that two are easier than one, and that after that it just doesn’t matter. It may be easier, but it doesn’t mean you can afford it.
Once you have decided to try for another child, the next tough decisions need to be made. Do you throw out all the old stuff from the previous children to make space for baby number three?
Most of us love the idea of buying all-new things for each child. We also love it when we can clear out all of those bulky baby things! But there are a few things that you have to buy brand new for another child.
Things like car seats need to be used at all times. The first two children in your life are likely to be using theirs until they reach nearly double figures. This means that you are going to have to buy a third. Something convertible like the Graco Argos 80 means it will last through all the stages of development. This can save you money in the long term.
One of the biggest costs, when you have another child, is the nappies. Whether you buy reusable ones or disposable ones, there will always be a cost involved. Reusable ones cost a lot in energy and water bills to wash and dry. You may need to use special cleaning fluids too. Disposable ones cost a lot too, both on your wallet and the environment. Sadly, there is no getting away from it.
Baby clothes often don’t last very long after stains and stretches are taken into account. However, hand-me-downs and good quality second-hand clothes are a great way to save money.
Carriers, cots, and changing bags are also fine to use for each child. Check your old bottles and teats before reusing them. They can perish after many uses.
It can be tough to hold onto everything you have accumulated from having your first children. Space is precious in family homes. As children get older, their toys and clothes can take up a lot of space.
While you may want to buy everything new, you now have three children to plan futures for. Maybe some sacrifices at these early stages will support their educational needs when they are teenagers.
You have some difficult decisions to make about what to use, what to buy, and what to pass on. You may have to tighten your belts for a while to cover the cost of an extra person in your family too.
But the joy of having another little one to love will be worth any sacrifices you have to make. And his siblings will love him forever too. After all, it’s the life experiences and not the possessions that make for the best memories.
Rebecca x
*may contain affiliate links
