Budget for the toddler years

Some costs drop after the first year and others take their place. Re-doing your budget around the first birthday keeps it realistic.

Often cheaper

• Formula, for most families, as babies move to whole milk and table food (ask your pediatrician)
• Infant childcare rates, which often drop when children move to toddler rooms
• Fewer newborn gadgets

Often more expensive

• Shoes and bigger clothes, which they outgrow fast
• A forward-facing or convertible car seat
• Baby-proofing and gates
• Groceries, as they eat what you eat
• Activities and classes, if you choose them

Easy savings

• Clothing swaps with friends and secondhand stores
• Free library story times and parks instead of paid classes
• Toy rotation: put half away and swap every few weeks

General educational information. Costs and rules vary by state, plan and family. Family Penny Saver isn't paid by any brand, store or insurer.