How expensive are newborns?

[ThetaPrincess24]

Originally Posted by baci

I feel this can be a simple answer. It all depends what you feel your baby needs. I have seen people buy the most ridiculous amount of things that a baby does not need. It becomes more of what a parent wants, if you KWIM? A baby needs very little. It does not need all of the fancy equipment, so many pieces of clothing, and a fancy nursery. Keep in mind they grow very fast! It becomes such a waste of money if you go overboard.

I would say a part time job now is wise if you are nervous about the financial aspect. I would want you to work now a bit more and when your baby grows into a toddler spend more time with the child. You will want to enjoy that toddler as much as possible. If your other half is willing to let you work and is supportive it might be wise now. She can handle the baby at this time - not that you are not important at this time, but if she candle handle a bit more time with the baby - go work now.

Keep things simple now. That is my advice. They need love, food, minimal equipment, and just enough clothing. (don't forget health insurance) Clip some coupons!

Consider buying mom something for the birth of the baby. I think that would be a nice touch. (doesn't have to be ridiculously expensive)

I wish you the very best!

Do clip coupons! Coupons for diapers and baby wipes are in the paper almost every week.

Breast feeding is not only good for the baby but it is also free. If this is something that cannot be done for some reason or if the choice is made not to do it, still look for coupons. Occassionally they have coupons for baby formula (though not as many as they have for diapers).

Most of the things you can get in great condition at a consignment store or friends who no longer need them--crib, swings, strollers, etc. I would probably fork over the money for a new car seat. Unless you know well the person selling you/giving you a used one, dont buy a used one. Once a car seat has been involved in a car accident, it should meet five criteria before being reused:
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/inju...raintReUse.htm

A car seat is something you need to have before leaving the hospital to go home. Most hospitals will not allow you to take the baby home without one.