Whether you go back to work or not you will definitely have to readjust your spending habits when you have a baby. Here are author Becky Goddard-Hill's top baby budgeting tips.

Embrace your situation

1. Accept hand-me-downs and pass on your stuff too.
2. Share and you will be shared with! Buy second-hand wherever you can (check out ebay, charity shops in rich areas and NCT nearly-new sales.)
3. Tell family and friends your situation. They will understand why you are more frugal and may even offer support.

Create revenue

1. Cash in any savings. Your baby is your perfect rainy-day reason.
2. Make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to (See www.direct.gov.uk)
3. Consider family-friendly working such as mystery shopping, online surveys, or buying a franchise designed for full-time parents.

Make smart choices

1. Breastfeeding and re-usable nappies are significantly cheaper options. Give them both a really good try.
2. Walk wherever you can, leaving your car at home. Fresh air and exercise are good for your health and pocket.
3. Go to local baby groups. For £1 you both get to relax, have a drink and socialise. These are FAR cheaper than baby-activity classes.
4. Skill share. If you have skill such as hairdressing exchange it with a friend who can baby-sit. Build a community around you that is increasingly self-sufficient (it massively reduces expenditure!).

Becky has written a book about baby budgeting entitled How to Afford Time Off with your Baby 101 ways by. Becky's book is available from Amazon.

Becky also blogs about baby budgeting at www.babybudgeting.co.uk