In a recent segment on TODAY, Natalie Morales discusses how the change in economy is affecting moms and their household spending habits with psychologist Dale Atkins and Candace Corlett.
Most moms are reducing spending on household and personal services to manage the tough economic times. A lot of the cut-backs can be attributed to food and grocery:
- 69% are eating out less
- 54% are eating more leftovers
- 32% are baking at home rather than buying dessert
Other dramatic cut-backs are salon services at 64% and home services like dry cleaning or maid services at 58%.
Cutting back may save mom some money on the household bills, but not on time. By reducing services and eating out, moms are having to spend more time preparing meals and doing things more around the house.
Psychologist Dale Atkins suggests that you get the family involved – teach the kids how to help around the house and keep it age-appropriate and to call on friends, family and neighbors for help. This can be anything like taking turns driving the kids to school or teaching each other how to do new things around the house.
All of this extra work can have moms feeling additional stress – moms can de-stress by exercising, pampering yourself at home and taking time to relax and most of all, enjoy the time at home with your family.
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Being a single mother of two toddlers, I aspire to fine activities we can all do at home, especially in the Winter. Our latest project: making Valentine’s Day cards to pass out at school. Some of our other favorite house and budget-friendly activities:
- Baking cookies
- Reading and acting out the scenes
- Imaginary play
- Puzzles
- Singing and dancing
However, I do try to take the time for some self-pampering by relaxing with a HUGE cup of coffee, good book and a hot bubble bath.
So, moms, what do you do to pamper yourself? Any budget-friendly household tips?
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading ...