How We’re Tackling the Family Budget as Prices Keep Climbing

Let’s be real—keeping a family of five fed, clothed, and entertained is no small feat, even in the best of times. Now, with prices skyrocketing faster than my kids can outgrow their sneakers (seriously, how do they grow so fast?!), budgeting has become less of a chore and more of a survival skill.

As a mom managing a household, I’ve learned that creating a budget isn’t about deprivation—it’s about balance, priorities, and maybe a little creativity. So, if you’re in the same boat, let’s chat about how to make this work without sacrificing sanity or snacks.

Step 1: Take a Deep Breath (and Make Coffee….or Wine – your choice! 🙂 )

Before diving into the numbers, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: budgeting can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to happen all at once. Pour yourself a cup of coffee (or tea, or wine—no judgment here) and remind yourself that you’ve got this.

Step 2: Know Your Numbers

Start with the basics. What’s coming in? What’s going out? If you’re like me, this step might reveal some surprising truths—like how much we really spend on snacks each month (hint: it’s A LOT). Write it all down: groceries, bills, subscriptions, extracurriculars, and the occasional emergency frozen yogurt run. Also, make sure you know where you’re going to keep this information. Is it in a spreadsheet? Do you want to stuff money envelopes (great option!). Do you want to utilize one of the many apps out there? Know what tool you want to try, and be prepared to let it morph with you as you go.

Step 3: Get Everyone Onboard

Budgeting isn’t just a one-person show. My husband and I sit down together to figure out our priorities, like saving for family trips and making sure the kids have what they need for school (and maybe a new video game here and there). We even get the kids involved in small ways. We don’t give them allowances, the oldest boy has a debit card, but we do ‘pay’ the younger two with a Points System. They are able to cash in points for toys, snacks, pizza nights, games, and even a night a hotel with a pool with the family. Teaching them to understand what they want, and how much they have has been a game-changer.

Step 4: Find Ways to Save

Here’s where things get fun (okay, maybe not fun, but definitely satisfying).

Groceries: Meal planning is my best friend. I shop with a list, embrace store brands, and use cashback apps to make every penny count.
Go to the Store: This has been a big change for me since Covid-19 times. I was the Instacart queen! Well, it truly is more affordable for us to do our shopping than paying higher prices and tips. However, NO JUDGEMENT if you want to keep doing this. Just a way our family is looking to cut costs this year.
Energy Bills: Unplugging devices (constant reminders to turn off the lights) and setting the thermostat a little higher in summer or lower in winter has saved us more than I expected.
Entertainment: We’ve swapped pricey outings for free or low-cost family fun—parks, board games, and movie nights at home with popcorn are just as memorable.

Step 5: Leave Room for Fun

Life’s too short to feel guilty about every dollar. Yes, we have a budget, but we also budget for joy. That might mean a date night, treating the kids to their favorite fast food, or splurging on a weekend trip. (because mom & dad need some alone time too).

Step 6: Check-In Regularly

Budgets aren’t one-and-done. Life happens, and things change. My husband and I have a monthly “money meeting” to adjust as needed, whether it’s reallocating for rising gas prices or planning for the next big expense (Christmas shopping, anyone?).

Step 7: Give Yourself Grace

Here’s the truth, mama: no budget is perfect. Some months we nail it; other months, the unexpected derails our best-laid plans (looking at you, car repairs). And that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

The Bottom Line

Creating and sticking to a budget with a family of five isn’t always easy, but it’s doable—and dare I say, empowering. With a little planning, a lot of teamwork, and a sense of humor, you can stretch your dollars and make it work.

So, grab your coffee, rally your crew, and let’s tackle those numbers together. And hey, if all else fails, at least we’ll have plenty of budgeting memes to laugh about! Take a look at my digital budget forms available for download in the store soon. I will also link videos to other options mentioned above. (Apps, Envelope Stuffing, spreadsheets etc.)