by Jamie Privitera

Created on: July 01, 2008

It's funny how excitement can change to sheer terror as you go from finding out that you are pregnant into the realization that you have one more mouth to feed. However, you really have nothing to fear. Just be creative and thrifty. Follow these tips for some more assistance.

1. When you find out that you are pregnant, start the leg work! Request that the person throwing your baby shower includes a diaper raffle, where everyone who brings diapers can put their name in a jar for a small prize. This can boost your supply of diapers, and trust me, you'll need them! Also, while you are still pregnant, sign up for websites selling baby items (formula and diaper companies, especially!) and register online for coupons.

2. Breastfeed, if you can. If not, tell everyone you know to sign up and register at those formula websites...you're going to need those coupons!

3. After baby arrives, master some new skills. Learn to sale shop on clearance racks for the season ahead. Since baby clothes go by age, you know what size your baby will be the next year! For example, last week I purchased a bunch of clearance clothes for my daughter in size 24 months...although she is only 12 months now. This way, I have her clothes for next year, and they were dirt cheap.

4. Plant a garden, if you can. Otherwise, just buy fresh fruits and veggies for baby. Making baby food is as simple as steaming veggies in the microwave and throwing them in the blender with water. Just pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze, and thaw them as you need them. some foods, such as bananas, can simply be mashed with a fork.

5. Cut corners in other areas. Find a carpool buddy for work or errands, and notice how much money you save on gas. Turn the dry cycle off on the dishwasher and let the dishes drip dry instead. Never, ever use your dryer unless it is absolutely necessary! Hang clothes outside instead. If it's really cold, dry some of them in the house or outside for a few minutes and minimize drying time as much as possible. For holidays, create a homemade policy - make gifts for friends and family. There are great (cheap) books out there that have various homemade gift ideas that can save you a lot of money in the long run.

6. Use all of your pre-baby energy to clean out the house and have a lawn sale. Use the money you make for a special baby purchase, or to pay bills if you need to.

7. Last, if you need to use a credit card (and let's face it, we all do,) use it wisely. Get a credit card with points that can be redeemed at various retailers. Save up points and use them for a gift card that you can use for diapers, groceries, or formula.

Last, don't worry about anything. Enjoy being pregnant and enjoy your baby. You may be lacking in funds, but you will find yourself to be so rich with love that nothing else matters. As long as you can feed your family, you will be okay, and if you can't, there is always government assistance. Check out WIC and other assistance programs. Don't be proud...there is nothing more honorable than a parent caring for a child.

Learn more about this author, Jamie Privitera.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.