how much do your children cost you?

I've got no idea how much my kids cost me either! I think the dog is costing more at the moment!

Although I do spend $200 a term on ballet & Gym for Alia. $80/yr for toy library for Cooper. He's the poor second child. He does cost me $28 a week/week 1/2 in formula.

Both my 2 cost about $40 a week to run plus daycare - we use cloth nappies except for at night, then there's food (but I only pay for breakfast and tea in this $40). I buy all clothes a year ahead, just kitted them out for the next year and a half for $170 at the farmers sale (including some things that weren't necessary like a gorgeous wee outfit for ava )

I do however pay $300 a week (only 4 days as have family caring for them another day) on daycare but that includes their meals. They don't do any other activities at this stage, Jack wants to play soccer next year so that'll be a Saturday thing. I'm by myself the majority of the time so they can't do anything unless its after 5.30.

We live relatively frugally, so don't pay for anything unnecessary really. Have only ever paid for daycare when we need it (like me working), bought the clothes that they need (even though some clothes look lovely, there's nothing wrong with KMart ones etc and trademe bulk lots). We are not on low incomes, but I don't want to be stuck in a rut by throwing money away. I'd rather be frugal so we can have family holidays, build a new house etc down the track.

On our youngest it's almost nil, just switched to cloth, bf. Though this week she's been having a pouch of organic baby smush each dinner because I'm being lazy. My 9yo is easily the most expensive. Stationery for all 3 school kids this year was $300, plus fees, camps, etc. Friend's Year 9 student (12yo) stationery was $230 + "subject fees" + "materials cost" + school fees + uniform. Easily $1500, & there'll be more. Wff will definitely be reduced, do not include it in your budget! Sorry