Hi, I am new to this site...just found out 2 days ago I am about 4 weeks pregnant! As a struggling fashion designer (you don't get a lot of money when you are starting out), I would really appreciate any input on the financial impact the bubba is going to make..

I understand that the government does help (but what is your opinion on this?), but also wanted to know what kind of costs will I be looking at from the day of birth till the child is about 7 years old?

I was thinking:

At birth: Throw baby shower to avoid surplus of buying essentials. So need basics as crib, pram, car seat etc... How much would that cost roughly? And nappies!

At age one: More clothes, new pram, new car seat etc?

And by the time age seven: toys, books, childcare?

I really appreciate any response, as of current I am very nervous about planning this!

Also, extra question: With my current income and career, there is no way I am near in purchasing a home with my bf, so how do I go about tackling the living solutions financially? Anyone been through this? Thanks!