Budgeting for a Baby Without the Overwhelm: Practical Tips for Unexpected Pregnancy

If you find yourself with an unplanned pregnancy, the first thing that will likely come to mind is how you are going to pay for this baby. It’s no secret that having a baby can cost a lot of money, but when you are still figuring out your next steps, that cost can feel intimidating. Luckily, you don’t have to make a detailed budget to get ready for the costs of having a baby. There are many real ways to keep costs down. You don’t have to figure this all out by yourself.

What Child-Caring Expenses Look Like (How to Save Money)

Most people’s biggest concern about having a baby is childcare. Then come diapers, then formula. Finally, there are larger expenses for furniture items like a crib or car seat. According to the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture), the average cost of raising a child from birth to 17 is approximately $310,000. This number is spread out over almost 18 years, meaning you will not have to pay for it all at once. Focus on the first couple of months after your baby arrives. You may be surprised at how simple it can be to plan some of your expenses.

After you have thought about what you may need, start with basic necessities such as a safe place for the baby to sleep, diapers, baby wipes, a few onesies and a car seat. These items are critical. Other items may be helpful but not critical. Many families will spend hundreds of dollars on baby-related items and not even use them. You can get almost everything you need from secondhand stores or through community programs. It’s completely normal to do this!

Where Can You Find Free Baby Supplies and Support?

Many of our clients tell us that they didn’t know there were resources like iChoose! We help you to earn supplies for your baby (equipment like cribs, car seats, diapers, formula and clothing) through education classes. These classes are designed to help you feel prepared and confident in your ability to care for your baby.

You can access these classes and services from two locations if you live in Johnston or Wake County. Our classes cover topics such as labor and delivery, infant care, and parenting skills. You will receive both educational materials and physical supplies from us.

Four Ways to Save Money for Baby

Here are some practical money-saving tips to help you, depending on your circumstances and available resources:

• Borrow or buy secondhand. Babies quickly outgrow clothes and other supplies, so borrowing or buying secondhand will save you money. You can find lots of great secondhand baby products at thrift stores, on Facebook Marketplace, or in local buy-nothing groups. Car seats should always be new.

• Breastfeed for the first year. If you plan to breastfeed and are able to do so, you won’t have to spend money on formula. Formula can cost you between $1,200 and $1,500 yearly. If you are looking for help with breastfeeding, you can find lactation consultants and breastfeeding classes through community resources.

• Plan ahead for diapers and diaper supplies. Diapers will be one of the largest long-term expenses associated with caring for your baby. Although cloth diapers have higher upfront costs than disposables, they are less expensive over time. If you are going to use disposables, buy them in bulk and use store brands. Some programs like iChoose offer diaper supplies through classes.

By taking small steps, such as signing up for a class or creating a monthly budget, you will be able to relieve some financial stress.

You Are Not Alone!

Many new mothers come to us feeling overwhelmed by the costs and the challenges of becoming a new parent. For most women, establishing an action plan like creating a monthly budget can relieve some of the anxiety they feel. Take your situation one step at a time.

Free Support for You and Your Baby

iChoose offers free one-on-one support for the duration of your pregnancy and throughout the first year of your baby’s life. We support our clients with budgeting, parenting, and understanding what to expect during each phase of their baby’s development. Our one-on-one support is free, confidential, and tailored specifically to the needs of every client. Would you like to talk with us about how we can help you?

You can reach us by calling (919) 585-4353 in Clayton, or (919) 679-3232 in Knightdale, or by scheduling an appointment online.

The address for our Clayton office is 540 Veterans Parkway in Clayton, NC 27520, and the Knightdale office is 4019 Village Park Drive in Knightdale, NC 27545. We are here for you!