Saving some money

The National Fatherhood Initiative has a few ideas about saving some money which can be easily adapted for parents with a pregnant daughter.

1) Ask around. There are other families out there that also have a pregnant daughter. Can you connect with them at a local pregnancy resource center? Finding others in your situation can help you by giving you a place to vent, to trade ideas, and get support, but also to explore opportunities to save money by carpooling to doctor's appointments, or to trade clothing, baby items and other resources like babysitting.

2) Buy used. Many items for your daughter and her baby really do not need to be brand new! Clothing, bedding, and furniture are popular items to buy used. Look for cribs, swings, bouncy seats etc. at garage sales, church closet ministries, and thrift stores. Babies outgrow clothing very very quickly, so make it a game to see how little you can pay for used clothes instead of buying new. Again, your local pregnancy resource center may be a huge treasure trove of items and education.

3) Comparison shop. "If there was ever a time to do your research, it's now. Make sure you are buying groceries from the most economical grocery store, and check for sales before you purchase something you need." The cost of diapers can be enormous. Look for coupons and sales. Read reviews of other items, like car seats, and shop around in person and online. Some expensive brands are not clearly superior to cheaper alternatives. Seriously investigate breastfeeding education instead of expensive formula. Help your daughter learn to breastfeed for a minimum of a month before she gives up on it.