It's tough to raise a couple of kids on one-person income. But if 13 million Americans can do it, so can you!

If you are one of those moms who are in the throes of financial madness and want to save some money without compromising much, then read on!
Single moms face some very unique challenges when planning a budget. Children present the most unusual and sudden expenses, and it is their mothers who have to incur the usual expenses besides caring for the kids and household; and all that without any extra income from a spouse.

Food and Eating Out:

This is probably the biggest expense in a house full of kids. Eating in more is definitely a step in the right direction. If you are working mom, then try bringing lunch and snacks from home. Another good way to save money is to cook extra meals and freeze the excess to be used later when you are too tired to cook.

Avoid over-processed foods as these tend to be a lot more expensive and less healthy. Check out your local farmers market for fruits and vegetables that are in season. You can also plan weekly meals around what your market has on sale. Also make sure to go through your fridge regularly to find things to use before they rot.

Accommodation and Utilities:

Moving to a cheaper place is a good option if you are struggling with rent payments. Getting a roommate is an alternative too, but you will need to be strict through the screening process because you have kids around the house.

Consult an expert to raise your deductibles on homeowners or renters insurance. You can also try switching to a 30 year loan if your home carries a 15 year mortgage. This will help reduce the payments on your home.

Clothing Dilemmas:

People usually wear only a fraction of the clothes they own. If you are such a person, go through your children's and your own closet and consider selling the stuff that you don't wear.

Find out what looks good on you and stick to it. Now is not the time to spend money on experimenting with your looks. If you have health club memberships, now is a good time to drop them. Instead, take a walk in the park with your kids, or indulge in a one-time expense and invest in a work out video to use at home.

You don't have to let go of the things you love to save some money. You just need to the have the willingness to search for unnecessary expenditures. Remember that every solo parent feels the economic pinch even if they are well off. There is always a fear for your child's safety because his first line of defense, his other parent, is missing.

Since you are the main provider for your children, it is your duty to make them into responsible adults. If you are down financially, let them know. Remember that you don't owe it to them to fulfill all their wants. Just do what it takes to get back on the financial train.