Budgeting for a second child

Serena03

Hi, Im expecting my second child in September and i have a fair idea of spend on a baby/toddler since having my first. Obviously I have lots of items i will be reusing but are there are any extra expenses I should save for and what tips do any of you have budgeting for two children.... a slightly worried mum any advice is appreciated!

Alikay

As with your first child, the big expense is either childcare if you intend to return to your job or loss of earnings if you don't. Everything else is a bit of a "how long is a piece of string" question. If baby no 2 is the same sex as your first, you'll reuse more, if it's the opposite sex, the more unisex toys/clothes and items of equipment you have the better.

Serena03

Thanks Alikay, by the time my maternity leave has finished my eldest will be 3 so I am hoping that we will get 15 free hours by then so it will just be one baby in full paid child care but still not sure if i am going back - depends on which makes more financial sense. Thanks for the help!

pollyanna24

Will you now need a double pushchair or a buggy board?

kingfisherblue

Apart from childcare, children are relatively cheap to keep when they are young. This changes when they are teenagers! You can use Freecycle or EBay for lots of items, although mattresses and car seats should be bought new.

Is your older child in a bed yet? If not, it's probably something to consider before the little one arrives. You could get a cheap/free base from eBay or Freecycle, but I would look at a bed with storage. Two children equals the need for masses of storage over the coming years!

Otherwise, I can't think of any major expenses. Obviously, any savings that you can make would be beneficial.

Serena03

Hi Pollyanna yes I have been keeping a look out on gumtree etc for a double pushchair. Thanks Kingfisher i didnt think about storage but a bed with storage would be ideal!