By the time baby arrives, it's a bit too late to consider how to save enough money to be able to stay home with the new family member. Most new moms, if they have taken a leave from work, have taken an unpaid leave of absence. After that bundle of joy arrives, they often realize that the six weeks or six months with the new baby just will not be enough time.

Wise couples begin married life relying on one income, even if both are employed. Can that really be done? Of course it can. But businesses and retailers don't really want you to know that.

A new Mom who wants to stay home for a while longer can find a way, even if the couple has been living on both incomes. First, take a real assessment of the financial costs of working, including commuting, parking fees, dry cleaning costs, lunches, and those unnecessary - but scrumptious - daily exotic coffees. As a working mom, you will also need to add in the cost of childcare.

One couple did an assessment of this sort and discovered that although the woman's net income was $1800, after all those related work expenses, she really only contributed $200 a month to the budget. By cutting back a bit and by having the husband put in some overtime now and then, this mom was able to stay home with her children.

Not every mother wants to stay home with her children. But for those who do feel that urge, there should be that option available. As a society, we should not look favorably or unfavorably at either choice. We should rejoice that having the freedom of choices is what makes the U.S. stand out.

Whether or not the new mom will be staying home, and whether or not the couple thought about the costs of having a child, the reality is a surprise. Loving a new baby usually is not a problem for any new parent. Feeling adequate to provide for that child is another matter, and that is certainly why reluctant moms head on back to the workforce.

If you are not certain that you can put your baby in the arms of someone else while you go to work, here are some things to consider in planning and organizing financing:

1) Yes, designer kid's clothes are cute, but you really do not have to buy new clothes. Good quality clothing lasts and lasts, and you might be able to find those same outfits in a thrift store or resale shop.

2) Learn to buy everything on sale and with coupons. Stay away from credit cards and the interest rates that go with them. Save up and buy with cash. Think about all purchases long and hard before spending money on material things that just don't matter. Do you really need a big screen TV? Do you really need another pair of jeans, when you have 12 pairs in your closet now?

3) Think about having only one new car and car payment. The second car, although it must be safe for mom and child outings, does not have to impress the work crowd. An older car that costs even $2000 in repair and maintenance each year is still far less expensive than having a new car with a $500 a month payment.

4) Your husband might prefer a packed lunch once in a while. By packing his lunch, you can not only save money, but can also slip messages to him, telling him that he remains your one true love. (Some husbands are not sure of that, once the baby arrives.)

5) Would a part time job provide enough income? Could you work those hours when your husband was home, saving on childcare costs?

6) Could you work from home as a freelancer or telecommuter?

7) Do you have a hobby that might help provide extra income?

If staying home with your new baby is something you want to do, then you should explore every avenue so that you can make it happen.

If working is your choice, then make sure you have the best care for your new baby. Investigate your childcare choices carefully. If you will have someone come into your home to watch your child, think about installing a "nanny cam" in the house so that you know your baby is being cared for properly.

Whether the new mom chooses to work or to stay home, that matter should be something that new parents decide together. Ultimately, though, the new mom has to be happy. A happy wife and mother helps make a very happy home.