Money-saving tips Jane Kemp Having a family costs money. And budgeting for hidden extras as well as day-to-day expenses can be quite tough. But there are some ways to lighten the load.

Ways to save money as your family grows

• Choose nearly new goods. Make the most of second-hand offers from friends and relatives. Check that items are clean and in good working order, for example that the brakes on a pushchair work efficiently. But don't use old cot mattresses - get a new one for each baby. And avoid buying a second-hand infant car seat, unless you are sure it hasn't been in an accident, and it still has its fitting instructions. Your local branch of the National Childbirth Trust may hold regular second-hand sales. Try your local newspaper or the baby clinic notice board.
• Avoid impulse buys. Don't go food shopping when you're hungry as you'll end up buying twice as much. Make a list based on meals for the week and try to stick to it.
• Toys needn't cost a fortune. You can borrow a toy for a fortnight for around 25p when you join a toy library (ask your local council for details). Alternatively, arrange toy swaps with friends, or go to parent and toddler groups so your child can play with a variety of toys.
• Join the club. Supermarket baby clubs usually offer samples and money-off vouchers, so you may want to sign up.
• Cut coupons. Keep and use all the coupons and tokens you get free, but only if they're for items you would buy anyway.
• Watch out for false economies. If you buy economy brands, remember they may not be as effective as more expensive ones. For example, if a cheaper nappy leaks, you'll end up with more washing to do.
• Stay within your means. Don't spend what you don't have. If you need to be really strict with yourself, take cash (not cheques or credit cards) to shops so you can't spend more than you'd planned to.

Did you know?

Your TV and video can use as much electricity on standby as they do switched on, so unplug them at night. (They can be a potential fire hazard, too.)

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