Did you just have a baby or are you planning to have one? Is your first baby on the way? Congratulations! In the next few days, months, or years, your first offspring will be in your hands. You will be unable to control your joy and of course, you must have thought of all the sweet things you would do for your newborn.
This is why preparing for a baby takes a lot of work, rigid planning, and energy. For you to achieve your plans, you sure need money. So, whether you are a first time parent or planning to have one in the future, Ink and Pen’s Blog- Rapport Naija shares ways to financially prepare for a newborn especially if you are having a baby for the first time.
1. Start saving
Everybody knows having a baby means more financial responsibilities; it could double or triple. The best way to moderate the effect of this is to begin saving. Do not wait until you see your wife’s bulging belly before you start.
2. Set up a baby fund
Numerous banks have prepared packages for customers who want to establish a baby fund. All you need to do is to approach them. There are many plans available, like having them deduct a certain percentage from your account at the end of the month for your baby fund. The bank account can also be a joint account with your wife – that is if you wish.
3. Adjust your budget
A budget is a definitive way to check your spending. With a new member arrival in the family, you have to overhaul your budget to accommodate the changes. Check your budget keenly and remove all non-essential items you do not need. Do this with your partner.
4. Figure out your income
Having a baby doesn’t mean your income must increase. Will you have to work more jobs to earn more income? And even if your income is high enough, how do you intend to allocate the money so that it can go round? Remember that there are other responsibilities besides having your baby.
5. Review your spending
Once you are married, you have to learn to streamline your spending. There is no room for extravagance. Even if this is the case before you had a baby, you have to stop after having a baby. This doesn’t mean you should live below your level or starve yourself.
6. Keep your baby purchases in check
There is the tendency that you may want to spend so much on your baby whether they need whatever you are buying or not because you are excited. Avoid this mistake; buy things that are only essential for their upkeep. Other things can come later.
7. Do not throw a lavish christening party
In Africa, Nigeria to be precise, many enjoy celebrating everything like it’s their last on earth. If you have to celebrate the christening of your child, let it be a moderate one.
Comments