11 Things Every Parent Already Knows When They Have Their Second Child

It's a little easier now that it's round two! There's a lot to be learned from having your first child, like potentially saving money for the whole family with GEICO.

1. You know what baby gear can be reused and what needs to be replaced.

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You stay informed about the reusability of old items. For example, toys, clothes, and linens may be reused if properly cleaned, while cribs should not be older than 10 years, and breast pumps will need the tube kit replaced.

2. You have hand-me-down exchange parties.

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You get new looks for your newborn without the cost by organizing exchange parties with other parents and freshening up your baby's wardrobe.

3. You make your own baby food instead of buying it in stores.

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It saves you time and money, and you're free to customize your own recipes based on your baby's taste!

Find more recipes here.

4. You upcycle old baby clothes to make them feel brand new!

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You know that hand-me-downs don’t have to be boring — just take old baby clothes and spruce them up with ruffles, patches, pom-poms, etc.!

5. You know that old toys make great presents for your little newcomer.

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You store any toys your eldest is done playing with, then wrap up and repurpose them for your second child. It's just as new and exciting for your little tyke!

6. And that old toys are also a great way to decorate the new baby's room.

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You have fun personalizing the new baby's room with toys from your previous child. It saves you money, and it's a great way to make your firstborn a part of welcoming a new sibling into the world!

(If you're pressed for time, you can buy one off Etsy!)

7. Your local library is your best-kept secret.

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Books can get expensive, especially when the baby keeps outgrowing them and needing new ones! You get free books at your local library, then purchase a book if it's a real favorite.

You're also on the lookout for reading groups and book parties for your growing firstborn!

8. You always have wipes on hand.

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Now that there are two of them, your kids are swapping germs back and forth. You keep wipes in your bag, your car, and different rooms of the house so you're always prepared!

9. When it comes to diapers, you always go generic (or cloth!).

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Diapers can really cut into your budget, especially when you're splurging on brand names. You read online reviews to find out which generic diapers are best, or even try your hand at cloth diapers for better savings!

10. You understand that investing in a tablet goes a long way.

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You've gotten enough mileage out of it to justify the cost, whether it's keeping your eldest entertained with educational games, or strapping it to a crib as a makeshift baby monitor.

11. Bulk stores are your friend!

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Now that your family has grown, you finally buy in bulk and get maximum savings.

You often buy your firstborn a book or toy to keep them occupied while you shop. Not to mention all the fun you have with free samples!

Enjoy your new baby — there's nothing more adorable!