MoneySaving Mums

A question about : Stay at home costs

Hi all,

This is a bit of an unusual angle to take, but an important question for us:

We both work, with LO in preschool, OH makes just enough (with my tax credits added) to cover the childcare costs and most of the food shopping.

LO has come on leaps and bounds since she has been there,
she is far ahead of the majority in her group and loved being there.
That's why we have endured the travel and costs.

A question about : Starting school earlier?

Hi, my DD2 was born on 3rd of September 2011, so she missed admission cut off date for 2015/2016 by three days. Is it possible she will start reception class in 2015 or do I have to wait to 2016. My DD1 was born on 26/12/2005 and she started school in September 2009, so she wasn't 4 years old yet. Now I tried to apply online for a school place, but been told she is to young. Is there any way around, like talk to school/council or what else can I do?
Thanks

A question about : Building a new (organised and frugal) life

I've decided it's time to organise my life and I'm hoping at least a few of you may want to join me, so we can help, inspire and encourage each other.

I'm 34 with 3 kids 8,3 and 1. I've been a single parent for almost a year now and have had trouble dealing with that as I've always been a loner and have no one to rely on for help. I have no hobbies, no savings, no time and plenty of debt.

A question about : Our 8 yr old cannot swim without floating aids.

Our daughter is almost 8 yrs old. She started swimming lessons at the age of 5. She was extremely scared of water. We didn't take her to the pool when she was a little kid, as I myself couldn't swim. I had to learn swimming as an adult before she started her lessons. We have taken her swimming whenever we can ever since, but then she will only play in the pool.

A question about : Should I just accept my lot? advice needed

I don't know if anyone will read this and if you do sorry as it's gonna be a long one. I could really do with some advice.

A question about : Childcare vouchers

Just wondering if someone can give me a bit of help with this. Basically, I know how the system works when you're spending Ј55 a week or more on childcare, but not otherwise!

Husband and I have one child who will be going to nursery in January for a couple of sessions a week, until August when she'll get a free school nursery place. Privately paying, not eligible for any free hours, better off doing it this way than tax credits. Husband's work offers vouchers, mine doesn't, so we'd be on one lot only. Basic rate tax.

A question about : what is the difference between the ELC brambledale and cobblestone farms

I've looked on ebay & I cant really see any difference.
The Brambledale is Ј35.00 new I think, what puzzles me is why they fetch so much on ebay? Is it added extras? Or is the cobblestone discontinued & much better?
Its for my farm mad grandson.

A question about : Guard rail on spare bed for granddaughter

Granddaughter coming to stay for a week next month. She is coming up 3 and about to move into her first bed. We can't really find room for or spare the expense of a separate child's starter bed and are wondering about a childs guard rail on our existing single bed.

Anyone recommend a good one and anything else we should look out for?