Marriage & Family Archives | Page 6 of 78

Love & Money: Finding Financial Compatibility in Relationships

Discussing finances in a relationship may not seem romantic, but it’s crucial for long-term success. Money often becomes a source of stress and addressing it early can prevent conflicts that extend beyond your wallet. On that note, here are some tips that you can follow when dating.

WHAT IS FINANCIAL COMPATIBILITY?

Financial compatibility involves aligning spending and saving habits with your partner. It’s about understanding each other’s beliefs about money and supporting individual and joint financial goals. This alignment determines whether money becomes a source of harmony or conflict in the relationship.

Furthermore, research shows that a significant percentage of couples break up due to financial disagreements. Being on the same page as your partner regarding money can help you avoid major conflicts and achieve financial goals faster.

SIGNS TO LOOK FOR

Identifying signs of financial compatibility early on is crucial. Here are five indicators to look for:

#1: OPEN COMMUNICATION

Being able to discuss financial matters honestly and openly is essential. Avoiding or evading conversations about money can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts in the future.

#2: TRANSPARENCY IN PURCHASES

Is your partner using girl math when she purchases and often leaves some information to herself? Hiding purchases can lead to distrust and strain the relationship. On the flipside, feeling comfortable showing each other purchases indicates trust and financial alignment.

#3: MUTUAL TRUST IN SPENDING HABITS

Observe your partner’s spending habits in the early stages of dating. Aligned spending priorities and trust in each other’s financial responsibility contribute to a harmonious relationship. Shared attitudes toward saving help achieve joint financial goals.

#4: COMPARABLE INCOME & CREDIT SCORES

Similar earning levels and credit scores reduce resentment and imbalance in financial contributions. This alignment fosters stability and reduces conflicts over money.

#5: JOINT EFFORT IN DEBT MANAGEMENT

Actively working together to pay off debts demonstrates financial responsibility and shared goals for stability.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you’re still uncertain about your financial compatibility, consider the following five questions to gain insight:

Are you inclined towards spending or saving? Understanding each other’s financial habits is essential.

Do you employ any budgeting or saving tools? Discussing your methods can reveal compatibility or areas for adjustment.

How do you approach debt? Addressing existing debts and future plans for repayment is vital.

Do you consistently pay off your credit card balance monthly? Aligning on responsible credit card usage can prevent future conflicts.

What is your annual income? Being transparent about earnings facilitates a clearer picture of your combined financial landscape.

These questions serve as a foundation for understanding each other’s financial philosophies and fostering open communication. Initiating these discussions at the right time allows for trust to develop and sets the stage for a financially secure future together. Expanding upon the importance of each point can provide a deeper understanding of financial compatibility and its role in relationship success.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Open communication about finances sets the tone for honesty and transparency, building a strong foundation for trust. Transparency in purchases fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding, essential for a healthy relationship. Mutual trust in spending habits ensures that financial decisions are made collaboratively, promoting unity and shared goals. Comparable income and credit scores contribute to a sense of fairness and equality, reducing potential sources of conflict. Joint effort in debt management demonstrates commitment and responsibility, strengthening the bond between partners. By addressing these aspects of financial compatibility, couples can navigate financial challenges with confidence and work towards a prosperous future together.

Singapore to trial childminding service for infants as an alternative to infant care centers

Are you a working parent with an infant or having a newborn on the way?

Then this post would be relevant to you.

The government is planning to try out a childminding service to supplement infant care centers.

This pilot program will care for 500 kids between 2 months and 18 months in the first year, and then increase to 700 kids after that.

Childminders, also known as nannies, used to be common in Singapore back in the 70s and 80s.

But now it seems like parents don’t know where to find trusted childminders.

Or perhaps some think that childminding may cost more than other options like infant care centers.

What are the real costs involved?

This new childminding service should cost about $700/month.

That’s similar to what median-income families pay at major infant care centers where fees at those centers are capped at $1,235 per month for Singaporeans.

But if you’re a working mom, you can receive subsidies of at least $600/month.

Private childminding, usually with home-based nannies, costs between $1,200 to $2,800/month.

Unlike centers, the government doesn’t regulate these prices.

The good news for the pilot program is that you can use money from the Child Development Account (CDA) to pay for childminding.

What’s the hiring process like?

The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) will appoint operators, and in turn, these operators will hire the childminders.

Each childminder can care for up to 3 infants at a time and this could be at their own home, or at community centers/clubs nearby where there is high demand.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

All operators must follow set rules to keep the kids safe.

For instance, having guidelines for safety and letting you know about the profile of these childminders.

The childminders will also need to be formally trained to care for infants.

The government will conduct background checks on operators and childminders and work with operators to set industry standards too.

What are the benefits?

Childminding offers flexibility compared to centers with lots of kids.

And FYI, centers usually don’t take in sick kids.

With childminding, parents like yourself can choose what works best for your family’s needs and preferences.

Since not everyone prefers the structured setting of centers, there may be a demand for more flexible hours or individualized child care at home.

The bigger goal is to grow childminding as another affordable and reliable option for parents.

With that said, the government wants to set baseline rules without limiting the types of services provided or reducing how many parents can use childminding.

Currently, there are no formal regulations for childminding or babysitting.

Anyway, more details will come in the 2nd half of 2024 after more discussion with parents, childminders, and operators.

So stay tuned for the next update.

HDB flat assistance measures for young couples and families starting June 2024

News has it that the government is making it easier for young couples to buy their first HDB flat starting in June.

And here’s what they are going to do:

Lower the initial down payment from 20% to just 2.5% of the purchase price.

What are the requirements?

Right now, couples, where one is a full-time national serviceman, student, or recently completed their studies or national service in the last year, can defer having their income assessed until right before they get the keys.

This is because if they were assessed earlier, they might not qualify for grants like the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG), which requires being employed for at least a year.

By waiting until key collection to check income, the couples have a better chance of getting the grant or even qualifying for a higher loan amount.

Other requirements for deferred income assessment include one person being 30 or younger.

The couple must also be married or applying together under the Fiance-Fiancee Scheme, where the minimum age is 21.

Down payment benefits

Additionally, young couples currently have the option to split the minimum 20% down payment into two installments.

The first is either 5% or 10% depending on the loan, and the second is due at key collection.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Since 2018, over 3,700 couples have used deferred income assessment and staggered down payments to make it easier to buy their first flat earlier.

Now, the government wants to help reduce the initial costs even more.

For some, the reduced initial down payment of just 2.5% will significantly lower the financial barrier to owning a home.

The changes take effect starting with the BTO sales launch in June.

Additional rental vouchers

Families who qualify for the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) will also get temporary $300/month rental vouchers while waiting for their new homes to be completed.

HDB is doubling the supply of rental flats they provide to help meet demand.

In the interim, the government will provide eligible families vouchers for a year starting in July to help cover renting an HDB flat or bedroom on the open market.

The $300 amount was carefully set to provide relief without over-inflating rental prices for others.

To qualify for the new vouchers, families must meet the PPHS requirements and have a rental tenancy registered with HDB when applying.

Those eligible will get reimbursed based on how long their approved tenancy falls within the year.

With that said, renting from family members won’t count.

More details will be shared closer to the official launch so stay tuned if you’re eyeing this segment from the government.

Top Picks for Affordable Wedding Photography in Singapore

Having tied the knot not once, but twice – once in a civil ceremony and again in a church – I can attest to the magic of capturing those precious moments without breaking the bank.

Whether it’s the enchanting pre-nuptial shoots or the heartwarming on-site wedding photos, here are some delightful options that won’t empty your pockets.

DOLLOP PRINT CLUB

Remember those adorable NeoPrints from the 2000s? If you’re feeling nostalgic for those fun-filled arcade days, Dollop Print Club is here to whisk you back in time! For just S$10, you’ll receive two charming photo strips adorned with various frames.

Plus, as a delightful bonus, you’ll get a complimentary digital GIF version delivered straight to your email. Perfect for printing your own invitations!

Image Credits: facebook.com/dollopsg

Location: 6 Ubi Road 1 #08-13, 408726, Singapore

YIPMAGE MOMENTS

At Yipmage Moments, capturing authentic moments of joy and happiness is not just a job – it’s a passion. Led by the talented Mathias, this team specializes in allowing couples to be themselves, resulting in photos brimming with genuine emotion.

With affordable packages tailored to suit every budget and special pre-wedding sessions that promise serendipitous discoveries, Yipmage Moments is dedicated to making your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Prices start from:
– Photoshoot session – S$100
– One hour of solemnization photography coverage – S$300
– Six hours of AD photography coverage – S$1,500

Location: 9 Jalan Arnap, Singapore 249315

LIFE4CUT

Transport yourself to the whimsical world of Korean photo studios with Life4Cut. With branches in Suntec City and Bugis Junction, this studio offers more than just photos – it’s an experience! Dress up in adorable costumes and accessories, from animal headbands to traditional Hanbok attire.

Opt for the classic “Life4Cut” strip (S$10) or go for the dynamic “Story Edition” (S$12) for a truly magical touch. Use these photos for your reception, topped with Korean-inspired flair.

Image Credits: instagram.com/life4cut_sg

Location: 200 Victoria St, #03-12B, Singapore 188021

VERA MORGANA

Step into a fairytale world with Vera Morgana, where every photo tells a story of love and enchantment. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating unforgettable moments, Vera ensures that each snapshot reflects the unique essence of the couple.

From fun and natural photo shoots to personalized concepts tailored to your preferences, Vera Morgana goes above and beyond to make your dreams a reality.

Prices start from:
– Wedding: 2 hours – S$300, Half day – S$800, Full day – S$1200
– Pre-wedding: 2 hours – S$300, 4 hours – S$600
– Proposal: 2 hours – S$150

Location: Bedok North Ave 4 Singapore 464094

GRIZZYPIX PHOTOGRAPHY

For those seeking fairy tale-worthy photographs, look no further than GrizzyPix Photography. Founded by the passionate Grismond Tien, this studio specializes in capturing candid moments and contemporary journalism-style shots that truly reflect the essence of your love story.

With packages starting from S$500 for 2 hours, GrizzyPix Photography ensures that your magical memories are preserved for a lifetime. Get a quotation for an accurate package price.

Location: 2 Akyab Rd, Singapore 309973

With these enchanting options, you can capture the essence of your special day without breaking the bank. So, let the magic begin, and may your wedding day be filled with love, laughter, and whimsical memories that last a lifetime!

Sources: 1 & 2

4 diaper rash creams under $16 for mums & dads who need a solution for their baby’s diaper rash

Dealing with a baby’s diaper rash is every parent’s concern, but finding an effective solution can be a challenge.

For all the moms and dads out there in search of reliable diaper rash creams, look no further for we’ve curated a list of diaper rash creams priced under $16, designed to provide your precious little one with the relief they need.

Desitin Rapid Relief Zinc Oxide Diaper Rash Cream, 57g

Promo Price: $10.90 (was $14.55)

First up, we have one from Desitin, the go-to choice for parents looking for quick and effective relief from diaper rash.

The fast-acting, creamy formula instantly forms a protective barrier on your baby’s skin to soothe irritation and discomfort.

Dermatologist-tested and paraben-free, the fragrance-free formula is gentle enough for every diaper change.

It spreads smoothly and wipes away easily, ensuring its place as a trusted partner from the first signs of rash.

The mineral oil, beeswax, and aloe ingredients work together to relieve rash discomfort.

Sebamed Baby Diaper Rash Cream, 100ml

Promo Price: $10.90 (was $19.25)

Next, we have this diaper cream that uses the same pH value as your baby’s delicate skin to soothe and protect irritated skin.

The water-in-oil formula combines panthenol and wheat bran extract to relieve inflammation and redness, while a lipid blend with lecithin and squalane moisturizes and nourishes the skin barrier.

A protective titanium dioxide film shields against irritants while the healing process begins.

Recommended for use from 1 month of age, this pediatrician-tested formula works to calm even the most severe diaper rash and promote a healthy diaper area so your baby can stay comfortable.

It’s a little tube of relief that helps keep your little one smiling.

Mustela Vitamin Barrier Diaper Rash Cream 123, 100ml

Promo Price: $12 (was $15)

Or you can consider Mustela, a vitamin barrier diaper cream that combines nature and science to protect your baby’s sensitive skin.

Using 98% ingredients of natural origin that are fragrance-free and preservative-free, it forms a vitamin-rich barrier that helps defend against the moisture, irritation, and bacteria that cause diaper rash.

The formula contains sunflower seed oil and avocado seed extract to soothe, moisturize, and strengthen skin.

At the same time, a blend of patented natural actives guarantees triple effectiveness at relieving existing discomfort, preventing future flare-ups, and promoting skin recovery.

Clinically tested under extreme conditions, this dermatologist-recommended cream is designed to be used daily as part of a diaper care routine.

Ceradan Diaper Cream, 50g

Promo Price: $15.85 (was $17.80)

Lastly, we have this diaper cream that protects tiny bottoms.

It’s formulated with three ingredients that work together to create a barrier against diaper rash.

Ceramides help repair and rebuild the skin’s natural protective barrier, while zinc oxide creates a physical shield against moisture.

Octenidine fights yeast growth that can irritate.

With every change, clean the diaper area thoroughly before applying a thin layer.

Pair with the Ceradan Moisturizing Wash for a double dose of protection.

This product from Singapore’s leading healthcare group ensures your little one’s skin stays happy and healthy so they can focus on crawling, walking, and exploring!

With these diaper rash creams at your disposal, you can address your baby’s discomfort promptly. Finding the right cream may involve a bit of trial and error so be patient, observe how your baby’s skin responds, and consult with a doctor if needed.

What are the real costs involved?

What’s the hiring process like?

What are the benefits?

What are the requirements?

Down payment benefits

Additional rental vouchers

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