Reply With Quotefrom one to two we upgraded to a pram with toddler seat, got another car seat (although dd1 was able to get a 6month-4 year booster which she would have needed at some point anyway) and a mei tai as we didnt have one before.
As we have three girls the cost of clothes arent too bad as there are lots of hand me downs but each season they do need a few new bits and pieces and shoes generally only last one child
Week to week food for one more isnt that much dearer we just each have more veg and less meat than we use to and I buy cheaper cuts of meat but still the same amount. School fees for dd1 were only $211 this year at a public primary, kindy fees were dearer about $160 per term. Child care costs are one thing that has impacted on our budget, not sure if that is something you need to consider. Nappies are an expense that can really add up if you have two and are using disposables. We have takeaway and treats less often but that doesnt hurt anyone.
Movies/zoos etc that have family passes are often family of four so the second child doesnt add much to those outings. Plus there are heaps of things to do that dont cost or cost very little, picnics at the park, fishing, walks to the beach. And thigns to do at home ie camping in the backyard dd1's favourite, baking, homemade playdough.
Swimming lessons are one of our biggest expenses but we think its important so we prioritise it. As yet we arent doing dance or other sports but if and when the girls ask I we will find somewhere we can afford. Talking to some of the mums at school there is a local dance class for $8 lesson or others that are $15+ per lesson.
As others have said you make do and find ways to save here and there. Budgeting really helps and we put money away each week for christmas as a couple of years we got caught short at christmas
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