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Q&A: Making Ends Meet with a Teenager

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In response to a recent inquiry from a financially insecure mother about how to get by, we asked poverty expert and Women Deserve Better Editor Joyce McCauley-Benner to weigh in. Here is their exchange:Q. Hello! My beautiful daughter is now 13 years old and is a joy, but our life has been full of transitions and financial struggle due to young single parenthood and lack of a … [Read more...] about Q&A: Making Ends Meet with a Teenager

Taking Your Cardiac Health to Heart

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Maternal mortality has been in the news over the past few years because it appears its incidence may be rising in the U.S.  While part of the documented rise is artifactual because we are doing a better job of detecting maternal deaths, it is true that many older women with pre-existing health problems are becoming pregnant, and this may place them at higher risk for … [Read more...] about Taking Your Cardiac Health to Heart

What You Need to Know About Federally Qualified Health Centers

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Federally Qualified Health Centers are important safety net providers in rural areas. FQHCs are outpatient clinics that qualify for specific reimbursement systems under Medicare and Medicaid. They include federally-designated Health Center Program awardees, federally-designated Health Center Program look-alikes, and certain outpatient clinics associated with tribal … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Federally Qualified Health Centers

5 Birthday Bash Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

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As a little girl growing up in California, I have fond memories of my 10th birthday, when my parents spread out snow (Halloween spider webs) and draped little pieces of “icicle” (I think they were “beads by the roll”) for friends to collect as part of a winter themed party. With just a few simple touches, our home was transformed into a winter wonderland in my eyes. We hope … [Read more...] about 5 Birthday Bash Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

18 Tips for Bathing Baby

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Bathing your baby is an important part of keeping him or her happy and healthy. It might seem scary at first, but with the right preparation and a little practice, you’ll have this routine down. Until his or her umbilical cord falls off, it’s best to give Baby sponge baths. -dry towel -baby soap -bowl or cup -washcloths -clean diaper -change of … [Read more...] about 18 Tips for Bathing Baby

Potty Training? Try Elimination Communication

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What Is Elimination Communication? Elimination communication is a form of potty training in which a child is given the opportunity to potty based on his or her natural timing. A child’s need to go is determined by signals, such as sudden crying, sudden stillness, or grunting. Opportunities to potty are accompanied by “cues” from the caregiver, such as making a “pss pss” … [Read more...] about Potty Training? Try Elimination Communication

6 Tips for an Efficient Laundry Routine

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Laundry: Some love it, some hate it, but everyone has to do it. Whether you’re doing it in your home or at the laundromat, washing a load well means washing a load once (i.e. not having to go back and clean again). Here are some tips to save money and time on laundry day. 1.Clean clothes when they’re dirty.  We can all agree that cleaning clean clothes is 100 percent … [Read more...] about 6 Tips for an Efficient Laundry Routine

A Cesarean Section Birth Story

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Like many other cesarean section birth stories, my birth story starts long before the day. My body seemed to love being pregnant. A lot of chronic issues I have were actually alleviated during my pregnancy, rather than made worse. However, one of my chronic issues may have contributed to my birth story. Around 36 weeks, for various reasons, it was determined that my son … [Read more...] about A Cesarean Section Birth Story

The Do’s and Don’ts of Formula Feeding

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I had every intention of breastfeeding my first child, so I was completely unprepared when I realized I would have to formula feed. Whether you plan on formula feeding or suddenly find it necessary, here is a crash course in do’s and don’ts. Do: Stock up. Newborns can eat up to 32 ounces (131.2 grams) of formula a day. A standard container of formula contains 964 grams, … [Read more...] about The Do’s and Don’ts of Formula Feeding

10 Fun Fitness Tips for Moms

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I get a lot of stares and questions when I’m out and about in my fitness gear. I suppose I’ve mastered the not-so-soccer-mom look enough to the point that people wonder how it all came about. To be honest, because of the culture I grew up in, I never participated much, if at all, in any team sports. The parochial schools and homeschool settings of my childhood certainly did not … [Read more...] about 10 Fun Fitness Tips for Moms

An Epidural Birth Story

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Too much information overwhelms me, and I am certain that no topic has ever been written about more than childbearing. So naturally, as soon as I found out that I was pregnant with my first child, I was quickly overwhelmed. My first instinct when I am overwhelmed is to simplify — ruthlessly simplify. Anything that is not mandatory or absolutely necessary will get tossed to … [Read more...] about An Epidural Birth Story

A Natural Birth Story

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After a failed pregnancy in a past relationship, seven years passed before I conceived again in 2013. I hadn’t had any medical insurance for those years and am glad Medicaid covered pregnant women. I immediately started fighting the push for appointments for this test and that screening. Prenatal vitamins were included, but I saw no reason to alter my healthy state or question … [Read more...] about A Natural Birth Story

Maternal Mortality Q&A

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Women considering pregnancy or who are already pregnant are likely concerned about recent news reports that the U.S. is experiencing a drastic increase in maternal mortality. So I asked OB-GYN and Women Deserve Better Contributor Dr. Ingrid Skop for insights as an expert on high-risk pregnancies: Q. How risky is it for women to die during pregnancy or after giving birth? … [Read more...] about Maternal Mortality Q&A

Finding the Right School for You and Your Family

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When someone recommended a school to me that was billed as “catering to working adults,” I thought, “Why not?” So I requested information and began a journey of discovery about schools and how it all meshed with single parenting. Simultaneously, I was in transition and needed to find a school for my rising kindergartner. How it all came together is still a mystery, but with … [Read more...] about Finding the Right School for You and Your Family

What to Do If Your Child Is Bullied

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Bullying has become a huge problem in schools, and every day we see its terrible consequences all over the news. Children are often reluctant to talk about it. Here are some warning signs to look for: If you suspect your child is being bullied, talk to her first. Let her know you are proud of her and you love her regardless of what happened. Give her space to express … [Read more...] about What to Do If Your Child Is Bullied

When You Can’t Breastfeed

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Many moms cannot breastfeed for one reason or another. Perhaps they are on a medication that will make their breast milk toxic for the baby. Maybe the milk just doesn’t come in well or enough. Maybe their employer isn’t very breastfeeding friendly. Whatever the reason, it’s OK not to breastfeed. Formula has come a long way since its invention in 1865. It now very closely … [Read more...] about When You Can’t Breastfeed

Your Cheat Sheet to the Formula Aisle

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For any number reasons, many women choose to formula-feed their child. Women who formula-feed can be overwhelmed by the number of options out there. Sometimes, it’s like learning another language. Here is a cheat sheet to help you navigate the shelves of formula at your local market. Styles: Powder: When people think of formula, this is usually the kind that comes to … [Read more...] about Your Cheat Sheet to the Formula Aisle

3 Ways to Get Halloween Costumes Cheap

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  You are not alone if you wait until the last minute to figure out Halloween costumes for your little ones. I once made sure less than a week before Halloween that my son’s costume bought earlier that year still fit. Here are some tips to make Halloween more affordable for your family. 1) Use what you have lying around. Check out what you already have. Those … [Read more...] about 3 Ways to Get Halloween Costumes Cheap

10 Things to Know About Homeschooling

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There are many choices available when you are considering how to educate your children. No choice is ever perfect (easy, cheap, quick results, and not time-consuming!). But homeschooling is an option worth considering if you want to feed a child’s love of learning in a flexible atmosphere tailored to his or her needs. Home educators Shannon Federoff (22 years experience with 11 … [Read more...] about 10 Things to Know About Homeschooling

Predicting and Preventing Preterm Birth

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Preterm birth is a serious problem. Complications from prematurity are the most common reason that babies die after birth, accounting for 70 percent of neonatal deaths. Half of the time, preterm birth occurs when a mother enters labor early or the amniotic membrane ruptures prematurely, and the doctor is unable to stop the early labor. The rest of the time, birth occurs due … [Read more...] about Predicting and Preventing Preterm Birth

What to Expect When You Have a Preemie

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PRE-ECLAMPSIA and EMERGENCY C-SECTION It was my first year in medical school. My wife was 35 weeks pregnant and her blood pressure was elevated, she was spilling protein in her urine and we were sitting in her doctor’s office for our weekly check. As the doctor entered the exam room…our roller coaster began. He said that my wife’s blood pressure was way too high (190/110) … [Read more...] about What to Expect When You Have a Preemie

What Is Kangaroo Care, and How Can It Help Preemies?

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Premature babies can have a hard road to travel, including incubators, drugs, and surgery. The good news is that among the medical and technical advances has arisen an appreciation of the human side of helping a premature infant to survive and thrive. As early as the 1970s, medical personnel faced with too few incubators and resources in the country of Colombia, for instance, … [Read more...] about What Is Kangaroo Care, and How Can It Help Preemies?

Making Your Clever Checkbook Calendar

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Everyone keeps some kind of calendar for medical appointments, for social engagements, for reminders of birthdays and anniversaries. What about your calendar for meeting your financial obligations and anticipating expenses? Whether you use the old-fashioned wall calendar or your phone, it’s just as important to keep track of “financial appointments” as it is social … [Read more...] about Making Your Clever Checkbook Calendar

How to Afford a Breast Pump

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As a new nursing mother, you may find yourself having to return to outside employment, continue in schooling, or in need of a breast pump for other reasons separating you from your new baby. Here are some options for you to look into: Through the Affordable Care Act (for as long as that remains in effect), breastfeeding mothers have the ability to order a new breast pump … [Read more...] about How to Afford a Breast Pump

Where to Get Free Diapers

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Of all the expenses that new parents face, most dreaded is the expense of diapers. It can be expensive, and it’s frustrating to spend all that money on something that will ultimately be thrown away. Here are some places where you can get diapers for free: Diaper Banks A good place to get free disposable diapers is through your local diaper bank. Look up your state here to … [Read more...] about Where to Get Free Diapers

What Type of Diaper Is Best for Your Baby—and You?

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A necessity for your baby, the diaper, comes in a variety of forms at a range of costs. The two big categories available to moms are paper (disposable) and cloth. The pros and cons of each involve convenience as well as price and even environmental considerations. Just remember a couple of things: First, once you weigh points and decide, you can always change your mind and … [Read more...] about What Type of Diaper Is Best for Your Baby—and You?

What You Need to Know about Genetic Testing

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Have you ever left your OB-GYN’s office completely confused by all the genetic testing she has offered? You are not alone. Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and there are many (often expensive) tests available to women during pregnancy. I hope to help you navigate through these options, to understand which tests may be of benefit to you and your unborn baby, and which … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know about Genetic Testing

Should I Be Worried about a Zika Infection?

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You have probably heard of a mosquito transmitted virus called Zika, which has been associated with severe birth defects when pregnant women have been affected, and you may wonder how much of a risk this poses to you and your unborn baby. Although infection with the virus has been associated with babies born with a small head and brain abnormalities (microcephaly) in some … [Read more...] about Should I Be Worried about a Zika Infection?

Labor and Delivery Q&A

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So, you are going to have a baby. As excited as you are, picturing your baby in your arms, you are likely somewhat anxious about what you will experience in order to get there! That is natural. It can be hard to picture how your baby will get from “in there” to “out here.” But don’t worry; your body was designed for this. You are tougher than you know! And the rewards at the … [Read more...] about Labor and Delivery Q&A

Do You Need a Monitrice or a Doula?

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Childbirth support is becoming more commonplace in America. This is fantastic news for women. Having the right support during labor and delivery can make the difference between a labor experience that is peaceful and empowering and one that is tense and scary. Navigating what type of support to have and whom to hire can be almost as daunting as the approaching labor and … [Read more...] about Do You Need a Monitrice or a Doula?

Keeping Up with Your Prenatal Health

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Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it is also a time to be focused on staying healthy—not only for you, but also for the child who is growing within you. It is possible to take care of both yourself and your baby while also keeping the costs down. Before the baby comes—and if possible, before you become pregnant—talk to your doctor about your health status, and get … [Read more...] about Keeping Up with Your Prenatal Health

4 Tips for Dealing with Morning Sickness

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Morning sickness is a common negative effect of pregnancy. Here are some tips for dealing with morning sickness: Sleep Well, Eat Healthily, and Keep Up Your Fluids Give yourself plenty of time to get out of bed, eating something in the morning so that you have food in your stomach, drinking lots of fluids, avoiding spicy and greasy foods right before bed. Sipping a … [Read more...] about 4 Tips for Dealing with Morning Sickness

What to Expect During Labor? A Birth Doula Explains

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Giving birth can be a gratifying, empowering, and affirming experience. It can also be a fearful, confusing, and difficult experience. Knowing what to expect, understanding what the female body is capable of, and having support make the difference between feeling empowered and feeling confused or scared. Pregnancy, labor, and delivery are unique experiences that require … [Read more...] about What to Expect During Labor? A Birth Doula Explains

Whatever You Need Is OK When Dealing with Pregnancy Loss

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One in three women will experience pregnancy loss. This is a staggering number. Sadly, most of these women will experience a miscarriage, late miscarriage (sometimes called a demise by doctors), or stillbirth without any support. They will be alone, emotionally and physically. But it doesn’t have to be this way. If this is your experience, we are sorry for your … [Read more...] about Whatever You Need Is OK When Dealing with Pregnancy Loss

Vaccines 101

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No one enjoys getting shots, but vaccines are extremely important when it comes to quality of life and disease prevention. This article is aimed to help you understand the why, how, and when of vaccines before you rush to schedule a doctor’s appointment. Why Vaccinate? The most basic reason to vaccinate your children is vaccines prevent deadly diseases, such as polio, … [Read more...] about Vaccines 101

How to Lease a Car

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When it comes to obtaining a new vehicle, there are two major routes a buyer can take. Either you can buy the car—with or without a loan—or you can lease it. While lessees don’t build equity, leasing is a good option for those who want to drive new cars at a lower price. So, what does it mean to lease a car? Unlike a loan, a lease enables you to pay for the car’s … [Read more...] about How to Lease a Car

3 Simple Steps to Buy a New Car

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The decision to buy a car is an important one and should not be taken lightly. In addition to the cost of the car itself, gas, maintenance, and insurance all add to the price of maintaining a vehicle. Once you have budgeted for these costs, you may begin the car-buying process. It may be useful to adhere to the following three steps to streamline the process and give you the … [Read more...] about 3 Simple Steps to Buy a New Car

What Type of Child Care Is Best for Your Family?

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Most parents need at least some form of child care. Unfortunately, child care can be quite expensive. However, the good news is it doesn’t have to be! It is possible to find good child care and still stay within your budget. From school and government programs to private arrangements with other parents, there are a number of ways to find quality child care. Visit … [Read more...] about What Type of Child Care Is Best for Your Family?

Vacationing on a Budget

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Even while on a budget, traveling with your family can be very possible and fun! All that is required is a little research and planning ahead. Consider visiting a small town (as opposed to a big city) or national, state, and regional parks as affordable travel destinations. Camping can also be an inexpensive yet fun travel idea. To reduce the price of camping/hiking gear, check … [Read more...] about Vacationing on a Budget

Celebrating on a Budget

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You already know when birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and other special dates are coming up, so plan and budget the celebrations in advance. Think about the important things: what are you celebrating? Where? Whom would you like to invite? What do you want to eat: snacks or a full meal? What activities or decorations will enhance the experience? Should there be gifts, and if … [Read more...] about Celebrating on a Budget

6 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Family Fun

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Thought it was impossible to go out with the family without spending a fortune? Think again. Local zoos, aquariums, and museums often have hours with discounted rates or free admission. Additionally, young children can often get in for free. Memberships are a great option for families that frequent a place and often offer extra perks when it comes to parking, food, or … [Read more...] about 6 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Family Fun

How to Save Money with Hobbies

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Many hobbies can actually save money while providing entertainment that can be shared with both friends and family. Cooking, needlework (knitting, cross-stitch embroidery, crocheting, sewing, etc.), carpentry and mechanics, and gardening are just a few examples of money-saving hobbies. Many of these require an investment to get started, such as ingredients for recipes, seeds … [Read more...] about How to Save Money with Hobbies

5 Tips for Planning and Budgeting for Meals

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Nutrition is a hot topic that has everyone running to Pinterest and recipe books for cheap, easy, and kid-friendly recipes. Families with busy schedules often find themselves having to compromise healthy and inexpensive meals for a quick dinner so they have time to pick up a second shift at work or make those nightly basketball and soccer practices. While a quick stop at a fast … [Read more...] about 5 Tips for Planning and Budgeting for Meals

How to Care for a Child with Special Needs

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Newly diagnosed? In other words, has the baby you’re carrying been diagnosed with a medical condition in-utero? So many feelings swirl in reaction to such news. So, what now? What do you do when you receive such unexpected and challenging news? First, take time to grieve your loss — because it is a loss. The loss of the dreams and expectations you had for your child is an … [Read more...] about How to Care for a Child with Special Needs

Money Management 101

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Handling finances doesn’t require an MBA. There are basic skills that make you a savvy financial manager. This section contains a group of articles that cover money management topics everyone should know. Topic #1: Cash Flow – otherwise known as your BUDGET = Income vs. Expenses What is your income? Start with your take-home pay. If you get the same paycheck each period, … [Read more...] about Money Management 101

8 Tricks to Handling Debt

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Using credit is a normal part of life. Financing a car or large household items, using student loans for your education, or taking out a mortgage to purchase a home are things people do every day. Good money management requires that you know when and how to use credit wisely. The article on “Your Credit Rating”  can help you make the right decisions. But if you find … [Read more...] about 8 Tricks to Handling Debt

How to Find Child Care in Your Community

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Finding child care can be one of the most challenging tasks all parents take on. It’s not always easy to know where to find the highest quality care in your area. Even beginning the process can be a daunting task. There are, however, resources to help! Child Care Resource and Referral, known as CCR&R, are agencies that keep a database listing of child care centers, … [Read more...] about How to Find Child Care in Your Community

Where to Find Help Paying for Housing

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Learning to navigate confusing systems while also trying to cope with change can be hard, but asking for help is not only OK—it is a sign of strength. Our society often doesn’t make it easy and is quick to judge, but a lot of people need help and a lot of people want to help. You are not alone. Each new challenge you conquer will make you stronger and, in the long run, will … [Read more...] about Where to Find Help Paying for Housing

An Insider’s Guide to Your Credit Rating

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Your credit rating comes from many sources—for example, from companies that have rented or leased goods or services, your bank, your landlord, and most often from a credit report. The most important elements of your credit rating are your Credit Report and your Credit Score. We will briefly explain both of these to you and point you to sources where you can learn more. The most … [Read more...] about An Insider’s Guide to Your Credit Rating

What to Consider When Choosing Cable, Internet, and Phone

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Living in the 21st century, instant communication is easier than ever before. Yet with increased availability comes increased anxieties, especially with the cost of communication being so high. When weighing your cable, internet, and television options, the following tips may be useful. Cable The price of cable has been rising at four times the inflation rate, putting the … [Read more...] about What to Consider When Choosing Cable, Internet, and Phone

Carpooling Tips and Tools

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  An affordable and helpful option to get from point A to point B is carpooling, also sometimes referred to as ride-sharing. This can be very helpful when traveling with children or traveling with lots of stuff. The best and safest way to find someone is through friends, the people you already know and trust, and their recommendations. Ways to find them online include … [Read more...] about Carpooling Tips and Tools

Tips and Tricks for Using Public Transportation

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One thing to consider when planning for the future is transportation. If you live in a city, public transportation could be your best choice. The American Public Transportation Association has a very helpful website to show you what public transportation is available in your city. Just a few clicks on their site will lead you to the public transportation options in your … [Read more...] about Tips and Tricks for Using Public Transportation

Should You Breastfeed?

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The decision of whether to breastfeed your child or to use formula is a very personal one. Before your child is born, you may have a plan to breastfeed or not. When your child is born, that plan may totally change—and that’s OK, too! Here are some things to think about as you decide what is best for you and your baby. Reasons to breastfeed: Breastfeeding is an inexpensive … [Read more...] about Should You Breastfeed?

How to Get Health Coverage for Your Child with Special Needs

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Depending upon your child’s condition, regardless of your income or whether or not you have health insurance for your child, there is a way to get your child covered by Medicaid or SSI to help with medical costs that may not be covered by primary insurance. Even if you have decent insurance, there are plenty of medical costs that insurance won’t cover but are essential for … [Read more...] about How to Get Health Coverage for Your Child with Special Needs

When and How to Start Your Baby on Solid Foods

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Starting your baby on solid foods is an exciting time and an important step in his or her growth. Once your baby is 4 to 6 months old, it is usually time to start introducing solid foods into his or her diet. But all children are different and are ready for solid foods at different ages, so it is helpful to know what to look for when deciding if your baby is ready for solid … [Read more...] about When and How to Start Your Baby on Solid Foods

How to Find Activities for Kids with Special Needs

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Children with disabilities want the same things as any other child their age. They desire to feel included and exercise their independence. And like most children, their activity interests are diverse: playing sports, visiting parks and playgrounds, attending summer camps, hanging out with friends, and so on. But routine childhood activities can be both physically and mentally … [Read more...] about How to Find Activities for Kids with Special Needs

How to Apply and Qualify for School Meal Programs

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School meal programs provide low-income families with free or low-cost meals for children both throughout the school year and during the summer. The programs include breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and summer meals for children all over the United States. These programs allow parents the option to feed their children healthy, affordable meals, regardless of their socioeconomic … [Read more...] about How to Apply and Qualify for School Meal Programs

Where to Find Help with Student Loans

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What do you do when the time comes to start repaying your student loans? What do you do when you are having difficulty paying student loans? Are there any programs to help you pay your loans, defer your payments, or get forgiveness from these payments? These are big questions, and as you know, there are many students and former students struggling to pay student loans. There … [Read more...] about Where to Find Help with Student Loans

What Are Au Pairs, and How Do They Save You Money?

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Parents today have several options when it comes to hiring child care, such as nannies, day cares, or babysitters. An additional lesser-known alternative, hiring an au pair, can be a wonderful and very cost-effective solution for families with an extra bedroom. Au pairs are young adults from another country who live with a host family and provide up to 45 hours per week of … [Read more...] about What Are Au Pairs, and How Do They Save You Money?

Breastfeeding 101

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Here are some of the basics when breastfeeding is just getting started, those things that almost all new mothers have questions about: How do I make enough milk? Milk production is not based on how much water you drink, how much protein you eat, whether or not you are pumping in addition to nursing (in normal situations), on what you eat or drink, or on whether you are … [Read more...] about Breastfeeding 101

6 Common Breastfeeding Questions Answered

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CAN I… Take medication while breastfeeding? During pregnancy, you may have been told to be wary of any medication use since it will go through to the baby. This is true, in most incidences. However, the breast actually filters more of the medications than the placenta does, allowing more medications to be used during breastfeeding. Have you been prescribed a medication or … [Read more...] about 6 Common Breastfeeding Questions Answered

Tips for Furnishing Your Home

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Finding a home and making it your own can be one of the most rewarding—or stressful!—accomplishments. When you have young children, keep in mind that sturdier, more durable items will withstand some wear and tear. While there are many places to buy new furniture for your home or baby’s use, there are also some great places to take advantage of gently used … [Read more...] about Tips for Furnishing Your Home

Will Breastfeeding Hurt?

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OUCH!! We’ve all heard it… breastfeeding is painful, right? All those terrific friends, family, neighbors, and even total strangers who tell you they had pain or cracked or bleeding nipples for six days, six weeks, or six months. Yikes! What, exactly, is normal then? The research and extensive experience of mothers, lactation consultants, and health care professionals show … [Read more...] about Will Breastfeeding Hurt?

Your Housing Rights: Leases, Landlords, and Children

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What are my rights? Housing discrimination does occur, which is why it is good to know your rights. Under the Fair Housing Act, there are things that are illegal for landlords and realtors to do. You cannot be discriminated against based on the following: Race or color National origin Religion Sex Familial status (families with children) … [Read more...] about Your Housing Rights: Leases, Landlords, and Children

Tips for Buying Your First Home

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Thinking about buying your first home? Here are some information and good sources to look to when preparing to purchase a home. Owning a home may or may not be the right choice for you, but if it is a goal, with careful planning, a lot of patience, and good advisers, it’s a very achievable dream! When Planning to Buy Your First Home: Figure out how much you can afford: … [Read more...] about Tips for Buying Your First Home

6 Options to Consider When Preparing for Childbirth

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There are many different options for bringing your child into this world. Obstetricians have completed four years of medical school, and then have trained an additional four years specifically to deliver babies and provide women’s care. Family practice physicians have also completed medical or osteopathic school, but their training in delivering babies may be more … [Read more...] about 6 Options to Consider When Preparing for Childbirth

10 Ways to Save on Monthly Expenses

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While rent or a mortgage payment is often the biggest expense a household may have, utilities can be a significant expense as well. These can include gas, electric, water, and trash removal. Some of these costs may be included in rent, so check with your landlord. While trash removal is usually a set monthly cost, other utilities are based on your usage. Utility companies … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Save on Monthly Expenses

What Is Prenatal Care?

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Before the baby comes—and if possible, before you become pregnant—talk to your doctor about your health status, and get information on how to stay healthy during your pregnancy. Your health care provider may suggest vaccines: Some of the common vaccines for pregnant women are pertussis (whooping cough) and the flu shot. You may also need to get a vaccine for … [Read more...] about What Is Prenatal Care?

7 Questions to Ask When Considering Where to Live

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Everyone needs a place to call home, and on a tight budget, housing costs can seem staggering. However, with some creativity and flexibility, you can find affordable housing and create a home of your very own. The first thing to consider when deciding where to live is the location. Ask yourself these questions: Do I feel safe in this home and this neighborhood? … [Read more...] about 7 Questions to Ask When Considering Where to Live

5 Tips to Get Kids’ Clothes for Less

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Cheap doesn’t have to mean shabby! Cutting costs on clothing for your children doesn't mean that your kids can’t enjoy nice, clean, and up-to-date clothes. It just means that you’re not paying full price store tags for clothing that your child will grow out of in a blink of an eye! Here are some tips and tricks from a few savvy shoppers: Check out Thrift Stores and … [Read more...] about 5 Tips to Get Kids’ Clothes for Less

8 Tips for Choosing a Pediatrician

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Whether you are a new or experienced parent, having a pediatrician that you know and trust is incredibly valuable as you welcome a new baby to your family. When making this important decision, it’s important to think about both the doctor(s) in the practice as well as the nurses and the office staff.   Often, you will find that the other people at your pediatrician's office are … [Read more...] about 8 Tips for Choosing a Pediatrician

What Do I Need to Breastfeed?

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Baby carriers, baby slings, breast pumps, nipple shields, nursing bras, hands-free bras, nursing clothing, nursing covers, nipple creams and lotions… so much to think about and make decisions about! New mothers are not expected to be the experts on all of these various items that can come up in everyday conversations about parenting and breastfeeding, or that you see in all the … [Read more...] about What Do I Need to Breastfeed?