Navigating the costs of extracurricular activities

 

Managing and budgeting for sports, arts, and other extracurricular activities can be challenging, but with some planning and organisation, it can definitely become more manageable. 

Here are some strategies to help you effectively manage and budget for any and all extracurricular activities. 

1. Assess your child’s interests and commitments

Identify priorities: Discuss with your child which activities they are most passionate about. Prioritise those that align with their interests and long-term goals.

Limit activities: To avoid overcommitment, limit the number of activities based on your child’s schedule and your budget.

2. Research costs and opportunities

Tuition and fees: Research the costs associated with each activity, including registration fees, uniforms, equipment, lessons, and travel expenses.

Discounts and scholarships: Look for discounts, scholarships, or financial aid programs offered by organisations. Some community centers or schools may offer reduced fees based on need.

Used equipment: Consider buying used equipment or renting items to save money.

3. Create a budget

Estimate costs: Once you know the costs of each activity, create a detailed budget. Include all expenses such as registration fees, gear, travel, and any other associated costs.

Monthly savings: Break down the total yearly cost of each activity and save a portion each month to cover these expenses.

Emergency fund: Set aside a small emergency fund for unexpected costs, such as replacement gear or last-minute travel.

4. Look for community programs

Free or low-cost options: Explore free or low-cost community programs offered by local schools, libraries, or parks and recreation departments.

After-school programs: Many schools offer after-school programs that include sports, arts, and other activities at a reduced cost.

5. Plan for long-term costs

Gradual investments: For activities requiring significant investments (e.g., musical instruments, sports gear), plan to spread out purchases over a period of time.

Consider growth: As your child progresses in an activity, costs may increase. Plan for these potential increases in your budget.

6. Fundraising and sponsorships

Fundraising events: Organise or participate in fundraising events to help cover costs for team activities, uniforms, or trips.

Sponsorships: Seek sponsorships from local businesses or community organisations that support youth activities.

7. Track expenses

Keep records: Maintain a record of all expenses related to extracurricular activities. This will help you stay on budget and make adjustments as needed.

Review regularly: Regularly review your budget to ensure you’re on track and make any necessary changes.

8. Encourage responsibility

Involve your child: Encourage your child to contribute to the cost of activities, such as by doing chores, babysitting, or participating in fundraising efforts.

Teach money management: Use this as an opportunity to teach your child about money management and budgeting.

9. Consider time management

Balance commitments: Ensure that your child has a balanced schedule that allows time for school, extracurriculars, and relaxation.

Plan family time: Make sure extracurricular activities don’t interfere with family time and other important commitments.

10. Evaluate and adjust

Assess value: Periodically assess whether each activity is still valuable and enjoyable for your child. If an activity no longer aligns with their interests, consider discontinuing it.

Adjust budget: Adjust your budget as needed based on changes in costs, commitments, or your child’s interests.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and budget for your child’s extracurricular activities while ensuring they have a fulfilling and balanced life experience.

Air fryer recipes

 

Air fryers and an amazing household appliance to have especially for a busy person looking for a quick and healthy meal.

1. Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Ingredients:

- 1 lb chicken wings

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp paprika

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1/2 tsp black pepper

- Optional: your favorite wing sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil and seasonings.

3. Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

4. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Toss in wing sauce if desired and serve.

2. Air Fryer French Fries

Ingredients:

- 2 large russet potatoes, cut into fries

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak potato slices in water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

3. Drain and pat potatoes dry, then toss with olive oil and seasonings.

4. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.

3. Air Fryer Salmon

Ingredients:

- 2 salmon fillets

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp lemon pepper

- Salt to taste

- Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).

2. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil and seasonings.

3. Place in the air fryer basket skin-side down.

4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

5. Serve with lemon wedges.

4. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients:

- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and browned.

5. Air Fryer Apple Chips

Ingredients:

- 2 apples, thinly sliced

- 1 tsp cinnamon

- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Toss apple slices with cinnamon and sugar if using.

3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp.

5. Let cool and enjoy.

These recipes are quick, simple, and perfect for beginners air fryer cookers. 

Earning Extra Income During Maternity Leave

 

Earning money while on maternity leave can help you feel productive so below I have put together some creative ways to generate income while you are on maternity leave. 

1. Freelancing: Offer services in writing, graphic design, web development, or social media management through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. 

2. Online tutoring: Teach subjects you are proficient in via websites like Tutor.com or VIPKid.

3. Blogging/vlogging: Start a blog or YouTube channel on topics you're passionate about. Monetise through ads, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.

4. Selling handmade goods: Create and sell crafts, jewelry, or other handmade items on Etsy or similar platforms.

5. Online courses or ebooks: Create and sell courses or ebooks on subjects you know well using platforms like Teachable or Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.

6. Virtual assistant services: Offer administrative support to businesses remotely.

7. Stock photography: Sell photos you take to stock photography sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.

8. Rent out property: Rent out a room in your home or your entire home on Airbnb.

9. Drop-shipping: Start an online store without holding inventory using dropshipping methods.

10. Surveys and market research: Participate in paid online surveys or focus groups through sites like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie.

How to Start a Family Emergency Fund

 

Building a financial safety net for your family involves several key steps.

Steps to build a financial safety net

1. Assess your current financial situation: Calculate your monthly income and expenses. Identify areas where you can cut costs. Determine your net worth by listing your assets and liabilities.

2. Create a budget: Track your income and expenses to understand your spending habits. Allocate your funds for essentials, savings, and discretionary spending. Stick to your budget and review it regularly.

3. Build an emergency fund: Aim to save 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses. Start with a small, achievable goal, like $500, and gradually increase it. Keep your emergency fund in a high-yield savings account for easy access.

4. Reduce and manage debt: Prioritise paying off high-interest debt first. Consider consolidating or refinancing debt to lower interest rates. Avoid taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary.

5. Obtain adequate insurance: Ensure you have health, life, and disability insurance. Consider additional coverage, such as home, auto, and liability insurance. Regularly review and update your insurance policies as needed.

6. Save for retirement: Contribute to retirement accounts like a 401(k) or IRA. Take advantage of employer matches if available. Increase contributions as your income grows.

7. Diversify your investments: Invest in a mix of assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. Consider low-cost index funds or ETFs for broad market exposure. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain your desired asset allocation.

8. Plan for major expenses: Save for big-ticket items like a home, car, or education. Set up separate savings accounts for each goal. Automate contributions to these accounts to ensure consistent saving.

9. Create a will and estate plan: Draft a will to outline how your assets should be distributed. Designate guardians for your children and beneficiaries for your accounts. Consider setting up a trust if needed.

10. Seek professional advice: Consider consulting with a financial advisor or planner for personalized guidance. Review your financial plan annually or whenever you have a change of income and make any adjustments as necessary.

Tips for building a financial safety net

Automate savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings and retirement accounts to ensure consistent contributions.

Live below your means: Avoid lifestyle inflation and focus on saving and investing extra income.

Stay informed: Educate yourself about personal finance through books, blogs, podcasts, and courses.

Be prepared: Anticipate potential financial challenges and plan for them proactively.

Review regularly: Periodically review your financial situation and make adjustments to your plan as needed.

By following these tips, you can build a robust financial safety net to protect your family and secure your financial future.