Yesterday I received a nice surprise in the mail: a box of hand-me-down clothes for my daughter! A dear friend of mine, whose daughter is also 5, sent them to us.

What fun my daughter had trying on her "new wardrobe." In fact, I think she's had on eight different outfits since the box arrived.

How about you? Since your family is relying on one income - yours - it helps to be intentional about applying money-saving strategies every chance you get. So do your kids wear hand-me-downs or gently used clothes? Let us know where you get them by participating in this week's single parents' poll.

And while you're at it, make plans to sort through your kids' closets this weekend and weed out anything that no longer fits. If it's still in good condition, pass it on to a friend, or sell your kids' old clothes at a consignment shop. Your generosity might just make another child's day.

Related:

• 2008 Tax Free Shopping Dates
• Get the Best Deals on Kid's Clothing