Budgeting

Monthly Parenting Budget

A good parenting budget separates recurring costs from occasional costs so the expensive months stop feeling like emergencies.

Recurring lines

  • Childcare or school care
  • Food and snacks
  • Healthcare and prescriptions
  • Diapers, wipes, clothing, and supplies
  • Activities, lessons, camps, and birthdays
  • Transportation and car-related costs
  • College or future savings

The sinking-fund trick

Annual costs like summer camp, school supplies, sports fees, holiday gifts, and medical deductibles should be divided by 12 and saved monthly.