From diapers and weaning food to enrichment classes and trips to the doctor, every step of your baby’s growth is loaded with expenses.
For some parents, this means getting creative with the family budget to find ways to minimise unnecessary spending, while leaving enough for the essentials.
Others, like stay-at-home mum Cynthia Loh, 34, makes it a habit to sell the clothes and other essentials that her two-year-old son, Jeremy Lee, has outgrown.
“It helps me clear some space at home, and generate extra cash, too,” says Cynthia, who posts her used baby goods on eBay and parenting forums. She also buys second-hand learning toys – and, yes, sells them when Jeremy loses interest.
“I’d like to learn how I can fetch a better price for my items in the resale market, though.”
Young Parents checks with Vivian Looi, a partner at second-hand store Mommy Exchange (tel: 9876-8258) for valuable tips.
BUY THE BEST QUALITY you can afford. The design and quality from premium brands are usually better and give a higher return when you’re ready to sell them.
For instance, clothes in almost new condition from labels such as Petit Bateau, Oshkosh B’Gosh, Baby Gap and Guess are always in demand.
KEEP THE RECEIPT, especially if you’re selling the used item before its warranty period ends. That’s far more important than retaining the original packaging.
KNOW THEIR IDOLS Licensed character toys – from popular shows like Sesame Street, Thomas the Train and Dora the Explorer – are often snapped up quickly because kids can relate better to them.
KNOW THEIR NEEDS Toys that help with the child’s learning development, such as walking, are much sought after, too. They’re often costly, and your child outgrows them as soon as he masters the skill. Such items include jumperoos, exersaucers, push walkers, ride-on toys and activity tables.
Get a copy of the Nov 2009 issue of Young Parents for expert advice and local tips to make you a better mum or dad. Young Parents, published by SPH Magazines, is available at all newsstands now. Check out more stories at Young Parents online, www.youngparents.com.sg.
