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Father’s Day Gifts To Make This Instant

You do not have to burn your allowance to show how special your father is!

On that note, here are some DIY gift ideas that you can make at the last minute:

#1: A MONEY TREE

I have to admit! Men can be tough to shop for at times. For instance, my father has a set of criteria clothing articles. Everything he purchases must tick all the boxes! To prevent disappointing him, it is easier to hand over some cash. Do you agree?

If you are looking for an original way to give cash, you may design a “money tree”. A money tree is a tabletop arrangement decorated with Singapore dollar bills. Said dollar bills can be folded into flowers or leaves. Try the easy peasy money tree by SunburstGifts.

Image Credits: www.sunburstgifts.org

#2: A BASKET OF SWEETS

Satisfy your husband or father’s sweet tooth by creating the “perfect basket” filled with his favorite treats. Gather his guilty and paste the free printables by The 36th Avenue. Other materials that you will need include: a basket or container, a picture frame, and a paper straw. All these can be purchased affordably at Daiso.

Image Credits: www.the36thavenue.com

#3: A DAD AWARD

It goes without saying that adults crave for recognition as much as children do. Show how much you appreciate your father’s or spouse’s efforts and sacrifices by making a golden medal. Small Fry blog started with whipping small paper plates, glue, gold paint, and a template together. Begin by printing the free template. Then, put the small paper plates together and attach the decorations.

Image Credits: www.smallfryblog.com

Putting the paper plates side-by-side adds a cool dimension to it. While, the golden accents add prestige.

#4: A DADDY TIE

The “daddy tie” is my favorite homemade gift on this list. For fathers who have been working on their 9-5 jobs, you may delight them with cards that can be worn. Add a sentimental value to your gift by allowing your little ones to complete the project with you.

The daddy tie can be completed in 5 minutes or less. Simply download and print the free template on craftingchicks.com. Cut and fold the edges according to the instructions. Then, fill out the questionnaire with your children. I can only imagine their cute handwritings!

Daddy Ties free Father’s Day printable

8 Money-Saving Hacks For Families In Singapore

#1: OPT FOR PRE-LOVED GOODS

Save money while contributing to a sustainable environment by exploring the thrift stores and second-hand markets in the country. From baby clothes to infant accessories, dig deeper to each pile to score some great finds.

#2: REDUCE, REUSE, AND RECYCLE

Reduce your waste by reusing empty containers or recycling products before throwing each one away. Maximize the use of your sandwich bags, plastic containers, disposable utensils, and water bottles.

#3: MAKE YOUR OWN CARDS

With the number of birthdays and holidays in Singapore, your expense for greeting cards will add up. Instead of purchasing a S$5 greeting card from a nearby bookstore, you can have your children create one for you. Children love to use their artistic skills through crafts and illustrations. Let their creativity shine while giving your wallet an extra boost.

#4: SHARE A RIDE

It goes without saying that owning and maintaining a vehicle in Singapore is a costly task. This is where carpooling and GrabShare come in. Save money on ERP tolls, parking fees, and petrol by encouraging a friend to share a ride.

#5: GET RID OF THE CABLE

If you cannot keep up with the television bills then, you may want to enjoy video streaming services instead. Netflix Singapore and Toggle.sg offers a wide array of series and movies. Choose an economic option that will best suit your needs.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#6: SHOP WISELY

Grocery shopping is tempting for anyone. This is why many people end up buying more than what they intended. Please avoid shopping when you are angry or tired. Furthermore, you must not shop without a list in mind. The list will help you to prioritize your needs over your wants.

#7: WAIT FOR TEN

Shopping for every little item as soon as it runs out is a recipe for disaster! Wait until you need at least 10 items before heading to the store. You may also apply this strategy when shopping online.

#8: CONSIDER FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS

Spending quality time with your family is important. Who does not want to enjoy a pleasant day outside the house? By singing up to family memberships, you can take advantage of various group deals. These memberships are available at National Gallery of Singapore, Jurong Bird Park, Universal Studios, and so much more.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

Money Tips That Moms Will Surely Benefit From

Congratulations on becoming a dedicated mother! From now on, all you will do is smart mommy moves…

THE KITCHEN

For most mothers, they let their creativity shine through the dishes they cook. The magical recipes they prepare delight their family each day. Savvy mothers can take control of their food expenses by laying out a weekly meal plan. Make a grocery list consisting of items that you will need in the next seven days. Steer away from the temptation of impulse purchases by sticking with your grocery list. If your tummy is not that sensitive, you may cook your meals in advance and freeze for future consumption.

Another simple way to save money in the kitchen is by maximizing the available tools. For instance, you may cut your sponges in half. Let us be honest! Sponges can get disgusting in a snap. Some people opt to microwave their sponges to remove the crawling germs. On the other hand, others replace their sponges every week. Use half of a new sponge and save the other half for the next week. This allows you to save money despite the high replacement rate.

THE BATHROOM

A personal bathroom is a haven where you can temporarily rest or contemplate (on pressing matters). Bathroom supplies such as soap, tissues, and cotton balls seem to fly in thin air! Thus, the cost of these supplies add up. Stock up on bathroom supplies when these are on sale. Buying in bulk may eat up a significant portion of space but, the savings are worth it.

Another aspect of the bathroom is the medicine cabinet. When it comes to medicine, you must not shy away from the generics. Generic products are similar to the quality of the branded counterparts in many situations. Stretch your dollars’ worth by considering over-the-counter medicines (e.g., Vitamin C). You may even purchase generics for spices such as salt and sugar.

THE ENTERTAINMENT ROOM

The entertainment or living room is the ideal place to cultivate lasting memories. It is no secret that children put high regard on toys. Try making your own toys to save some cash. You are probably doubting that statement as you have limited time on your hands. However, you must not quit right away. Search through your cabinets to lift the available resources. As a preschool teacher, I suggest that you create a sensory bottle. Combine sand, beans, buttons, beads, and other small toys inside an empty bottle. Let your child shake it and spot each item. Go to Pinterest for more experimental ideas.

What do children value aside from toys? As sentimental as this may sound, children put highest value on quality time. Children crave for your undivided attention especially during their formative years. Strengthening your connection with your loved ones reduces the need to compensate through gifts. Show your love through presences and not with presents!

THE OFFICE

When it comes to your job, you can employ many strategies to work your way around. Make ends meet by embracing the “work-from-home” lifestyle. Raising your child is challenging when you have to keep a full-time job. Consider becoming a brand ambassador for companies such as Avon or Herbalife instead. Isn’t it nice to find a workplace within your play-space?

Secondly, you may become an entrepreneur by selling your stuff at Singapore’s mommy communities. I recommend the “New mums Singapore“. It is a Facebook group that lets you sell your baby-related items and join occasional mommy events. Here are just two ideas that you may get started with.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Let me close this post by sharing profound wisdom from the best-selling author Farnoosh Torabi:

“Child care is expensive and it may seem like the only option you have is to quit working to become the full-time caretaker, but try to avoid staying out of the work force for more than a year. Continue to work when your children are young so that you can go on to earn the seniority that’s often necessary to call the shots and create a better work/life integration as your kids grow older and demand more of your time.”

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

4 Steps To Overcome Family-Related Money Problems

The extent of your economic slowdown may vary from eating out less to changing your living conditions. Parents may not have enough money to put toward rent or school fees. These financial problems can take a toll on one’s mental and physical health. Thus, overcoming said hurdles is important.

To tackle these family-centered issues head-on, you must start with these four steps:

#1: DETERMINE THE ISSUE/S

It goes without saying that it is difficult to defeat the enemies that you cannot see. Try asking the ninjas! Similarly, how can you find solutions to a problem that you are not aware of?

Thus, the first step to overcoming family-related money problems is to identify the underlying issues. Financial problems are usually parts of a larger issue. Here are some common issues that you may think about:

a. Newborn (of first-time parents)
b. Unemployment
c. Addiction / Substance Abuse
d. Divorce

#2: OPEN THE COMMUNICATION STREAMS

As a child who sees his or her parents fighting constantly about money, talking about your worries can help. Find an appropriate time to discuss about the financial matters with your parents. If you cannot approach them right now, you may lean on a trusted friend or a credible counselor.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Do not hesitate to seek for professional help if the need arises.

#3: RANK YOUR FINANCIAL PRIORITIES

After addressing your triggers, it is best to create a path towards active resolution. Begin by writing down and ranking your financial priorities. Some may be as direct as paying off your credit card bills. While, others may focus on your lifestyle goals such as repairing your aesthetically pleasing home.

Nevertheless, it is important to create a realistic budget suited to controlling your financial problems.

#4: CREATE A SAFETY NET

The future of your wealth is up to you! As the above steps have illustrated, you must review your current financial circumstance and create a straightforward path. To prevent further damage or cushion unforeseen events, consider cultivating an emergency fund.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Families are recommended to have a sufficient amount worth at least 6 months of your income. Do not rely solely on credit cards for emergencies!

Sources: 1 & 2

4 Budget-Friendly Halloween Events For The Entire Family

Halloween in Singapore is nothing but SPOOKTACULAR!

Embody the festive spirit without breaking the bank by searching for free or affordable activities within your community. You will not believe how many there are out there!

1. NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

Immerse yourself in a world where Asian superstitions and beliefs come to life as Asian Civilisations Museum brings you the “Horror Mash Up”! This annual event includes activities and performances inspired by their stellar collection. Expect to hear haunting tales, to strike eerie poses at their dress-up booths, and to make your own spooky souvenir. Activities will run from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm while the museum operates until 12:00 midnight.

This FREE event, ideally for your teens, is set on October 28.

Location: Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555

2. TRICK OR TREAT

No Halloween celebration is complete without “Trick or Treat”. A massive gathering awaits at Woodlands Woodgrove. With your costume, you can roam the neighborhood from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm (or until the treats run out). Kids of all ages along with their parents will come together to make the most of this day.

Do not forget to mark your calendars on October 31! Joining the exciting event is free, but you can donate to its sponsors.

Location: Woodgrove Neighbourhood (refer to the map)

Image Credits: streetdirectory.com

3. LITTLE MONSTERS’ PLAYGROUP

Are you looking for an event that lets you bond with your adorable ones? Look no further as Australian International School brings you the “Halloween Playgroup”. Toddlers to children aged 5 are all welcome to dress as magical and mystical creatures. The activities lined up for your little (and beloved) monsters include dancing, games, and storytelling. If these sound fun to you, book your spot here!

This FREE event is scheduled on October 17. Registration starts at 9:00 am.

Location: Australian International School, 1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore 556 818

4. FOR MOMS AND BUBS

Shine in your most creative costumes with your baby to win attractive prizes from Bove! Bove by Spring Maternity’s “Halloween Dress-Up Party” includes the following highlights:

a. Tea Party with Popcorns & Cotton Candies
b. Photobooth experience with instant printouts
c. Crowning of the Best-Dressed Halloween Baby and Toddler, as well as
d. Goodie bags from the event sponsor.

This is the only event on this list that lets you pay for the admission, but fret not. Ticket are sold at S$5 each. Oh! Babies 12 months and below are free of charge.

Location: 3 Temasek Blvd, #02–728/729/730, Suntec City Branch,Tower 4, Singapore 038983

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1 &2

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