Toddler Entertainment

I am very lucky to have in my local area two different groups who provide free activities for toddlers. I can go to 2 toddler groups a week for 2 hours with free play (and one optional craft activity) followed by a snack, songs and a story. I have 2 free sessions for 2 hours a week in a soft play area where toast and a drink (for both parent and child) are provided. I have 2 mornings a week where I can mix with other mums and my daughter is looked after by creche workers, and 2 other sessions a week for 1.5 hours each where I can do activities with my daughter for free.

I am not sure if these opportunities happen all over the country but it is certainly worth talking to your local health visitor who will know all about local free activities. Most libraries have a free story session which is great for toddlers. My daughters both love these when we can make them (unfortunately they currently clash with my voluntary work).

I don't take advantage of them all as the times aren't always convinient and in fact I would rather pay £1 a session for an alternative toddler group where my daughter is happier. But because I'm on a low income there are some swimming sessions I can get free too so there is plenty to keep us occupied.

The only problem is trying to explain to my older daughter why I didn't do the same amount of activities with her, which was because I had a higher income and had to pay for them all, plus I was working.

Birthday Savings

My daughter had a birthday yesterday and I found it very easy to make it cheaper. I found presents in the sales through the year to save money on her present. Got Barbie gift bags and invitations from Home Bargains for 40p for 20. Then I have saved on her party by having it at home instead of taking the children out. I made her birthday cake myself. Small savings really add up and a birthday that could have cost me hundreds of pounds ended up only costing about £50 including all her presents.