Everyone has their own tricks for saving a few bucks, but some methods go far beyond clipping coupons or skipping takeout. A whole world of ultra-frugal strategies stays hidden, either because they’re a little unusual, a little quirky, or just too personal to share. Some of them get raised eyebrows. Walking over an hour to work? Tearing the stems off your vegetables? As odd as they sound, small habits like these add up. There’s frugal, and then there’s really frugal. Here are eleven extreme habits that really do put money back in your pocket. You can try them or skip them: it’s all up to you! Take Home Leftovers From Work One clever way to save on groceries? Working somewhere that gives away leftover food. In a hospital kitchen, after meals are served, the remaining food often goes unclaimed, and it’s not uncommon to be allowed to take some home. The same is true for some food establishments.  With enough access, it’s possible to coast through an entire summer without spending much, if anything, on food. Every workplace has its own rules, so it never hurts to ask what happens to the extra food at the end of a shift. Walk To Work, Even if It Takes Over an Hour Commuting on foot isn’t unusual, but doing it for over an hour each way without ever mentioning the distance? That’s dedication. It’s a great way to save on gas, reduce wear on a car, and stay in shape. When you add up fuel, parking, and maintenance, the savings can be significant. Some people even find the walk becomes the best part of their day, a chance to clear their head before and after work. Tear the Stems off Your Produce Every gram counts at the grocery store, especially when produce is priced by weight. One easy (if slightly meticulous) trick is removing vegetable stems before checkout. It doesn’t seem like much, but over time, the savings add up. Think of broccoli, celery, and leafy greens. You’re only paying for the parts you’ll actually eat, and the stems often end up in the trash anyway. Reuse the Free Shopper Papers at Your Door Those free shopper papers that pile up in driveways? They’re more useful than they look. They’re great for tasks like cleaning windows, protecting surfaces during messy jobs, or scooping cat litter. The bags they come in are an added bonus. Newspaper works on glass because it doesn’t leave lint behind, and it makes a fine drop cloth for painting or a craft project. Instead of buying paper towels or plastic sheeting for these jobs, you’re using something you already have. Sew Reusable Cloth Pads DIY solutions can cut down recurring expenses. For menstrual products, sewing reusable cloth pads not only saves money but also adds a touch of personality and comfort. They’re easy to clean, fun to customize, and eliminate the need for constant repurchasing. This one isn’t for everyone, but for people who like a little sewing

What’s the real reason parents spend so much time worrying about their child’s education? The answer may not be what you think. Stop Paying The Status Tax! It turns out that four things actually matter regarding your children’s future success. None arrive attached with an Ivy League label. The answers to these questions should matter to everyone concerned about their children’s future. Do you give …The post Great Parents Make Great Kids appeared first on A Teachable Moment.