Practical Advice for Families on How to Save Money in 2026
Kathleen Tiu • January 28, 2026
2026 is here! Whether you’re planning for school fees, family needs, or just want to grow your savings, now is the perfect time to start smart money habits. Here are some practical tips for families:
1. Create a Family Budget
Monitor your earnings and outlays first. Sort your expenses by category (food, education, utilities, leisure) to find areas where you may make savings. A budget enables you to budget for necessities and set aside money for significant objectives like education.
2. Prioritize Needs Over Wants
Before making a purchase, ask: “Do we really need this?” Teaching children this habit not only saves money but also builds discipline and gratitude.
3. Shop Smart
Look for sales, discounts, and bulk options for essentials. Consider meal planning to avoid food wastage and unnecessary trips to the grocery store.
4. Save Automatically
Set aside a portion of your income for savings as soon as you receive it. Even a small percentage grows over time and helps cover emergencies or school expenses.
5. Teach Your Kids About Money
Involve your children in saving and spending decisions. Simple activities like saving coins, making a mini budget, or setting goals teach responsibility and prepare them for financial independence.
6. Lean on Faith and Planning
Proverbs 21:20 reminds us: “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Planning and wise stewardship of resources is both practical and spiritually fulfilling.
Extra Tip for Parents Considering School: Planning early for school expenses, like tuition and activity fees, can prevent last-minute stress and help you save more efficiently. At Pasig Green Pasture Christian School Inc., we offer flexible payment options to make education accessible while helping families plan wisely.
Start your year strong by setting clear financial goals and practicing smart money habits. 2026 can be the year your family grows in both faith and financial wisdom!
We are reminded of flowers, chocolates, and hearts in February. These are lovely symbols, yet they fall short of capturing the essence of love. Children need to be taught that love is more than just presents or emotions. Everyday deeds are a sign of true affection. It manifests itself in selflessness, patience, kindness, and respect. When parents, teachers, and other people exhibit love, children learn it most effectively. According to 1 John 4:19, "We love because He first loved us." Children learn to love others in the same way when they encounter God's love. Love is seen in simple acts. Sharing, helping, forgiving, and speaking gently all reflect a loving heart. These small actions, when practiced daily, shape a child’s character. Children also need to learn empathy. Understanding others’ feelings teaches them to be compassionate and considerate. Talking about emotions and encouraging listening skills help build this awareness. Discipline is another form of love. Correcting children with patience and guidance helps them understand right from wrong. Loving discipline builds security, not fear. Parents and schools share the responsibility of teaching love. When home and school work together, children receive consistent values and guidance. At Pasig Green Pasture Christian School Inc., we integrate Christian values into daily learning. Our goal is to nurture both academic excellence and Christ-like character. When children understand true love, they grow into respectful, caring, and responsible individuals. This is the kind of love that lasts beyond Heart’s Day. Partner with us in shaping hearts and minds. Contact Pasig Green Pasture Christian School Inc. to learn more about enrollment for School Year 2026–2027.
With about 22 million tons of solid trash produced annually, or roughly 61,000–63,000 tons per day, the Philippines has a severe garbage problem. Single-use plastics and food waste account for a significant amount of this garbage, and proper disposal and waste collecting systems are unable to keep up. Despite the existence of sanitary landfills and material recovery facilities, inappropriate garbage disposal and unlawful dumping are on the rise, endangering marine life, contaminating waterways, and endangering public health. Stronger waste management and zero-waste practices are desperately needed, particularly in communities and schools, as this expanding challenge makes clear. Making better decisions every day is the goal of a zero-waste lifestyle, not perfection. Small steps taken at home and at school can significantly lower the amount of garbage we produce and contribute to environmental protection. Zero waste follows the 5 Rs: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot (Compost). By refusing unnecessary items, reducing what we use, and reusing what we already have, we lessen the amount of trash that ends up in landfills. Using eco-bags, bringing reusable lunchboxes and water bottles, and selecting reusable school supplies over disposable ones are all small behaviors that have a significant impact. Building sustainable habits also involves avoiding single-use plastics and exercising caution while making purchases. As stewards of God’s creation, we are called to care for the world around us. The Bible reminds us: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” — Genesis 2:15 Zero waste is a journey. Every effort—no matter how small—counts. When students and schools work together, we help care for God’s creation and build a cleaner, healthier future. Start small. Stay consistent. Be part of the change.
Life always manages to add salt and sweetness to our days. Promotions, answered prayers, and moments of laughter with loved ones are examples of moments that shine. Some hurt, including disappointments, delays, betrayals, and unfulfilled hopes. These difficult times have the power to subtly mold our hearts over time. They become resentment if we are careless. But what if we chose a different response? What if we lived with less bitter and more glitter? Usually, bitterness doesn't make a big impression. Unresolved hurts, persistent frustrations, or seemingly ignored prayers are some of the ways it quietly creeps in. It dulls our vision, hardens our hearts, and distorts our perception of people and circumstances. Hebrews 12:15 cautions us that resentment can "grow up to cause trouble and defile many." What starts out as a personal anguish soon finds its way into our speech, interactions, and choices. "Glitter" does not imply that life is flawless. It entails picking trust over fear, thankfulness over complaining, and hope over hurt. The inner glow that results from knowing that God is still at work, despite the difficult process, is known as glitter. Here’s how we can choose more glitter in our lives: 1. Let Go to Glow The goal of forgiveness is to set your heart free, not to justify wrongdoing. Peace becomes possible when we let go of our grudges. Letting go makes you lighter, not weaker. 2. Shift Your Perspective Sometimes what appears to be a setback is actually a chance for improvement. Don't just ask, "Why am I experiencing this? but also "What am I learning from this? Wounds can be transformed into wisdom with a shift in viewpoint. 3. Practice Gratitude Daily Gratitude is glitter for the soul. Even in difficult seasons, there is always something to be thankful for—breath, grace, strength for today. Gratitude softens the heart and sharpens joy. 4. Trust the Process Not all pain is meant to break us; some pain is meant to build us. God often uses uncomfortable seasons to refine our character and deepen our faith. What feels heavy now may one day shine as a testimony. Everybody has reasons to be resentful, but we also have much more reasons to shine. Life is too brief to bear burdens that rob us of joy and weaken our faith. A daily choice to live with grace, hope, and resilience is to choose less bitterness and more glitter. Check your heart for a moment today. Let go of what is burdening you. Accept what makes you happy. Because we don't just survive—we shine when we choose healing over hurt and faith over frustration. Less bitter. More glitter. And a life that reflects God’s light in every season.
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Did You Know That? Christmas is not just about lights, gifts, or carols—it’s a powerful reminder of God’s love revealed through Jesus Christ. Here are some faith-filled facts about Christmas that celebrate its true meaning. 1. The first Christmas announcement was made to humble shepherds? God didn’t reveal the birth of His Son to kings or nobles, but to ordinary shepherds—showing that Jesus came for everyone, no matter their status. “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” – Luke 2:10 2. The three wise men (Magi) didn’t visit baby Jesus at the manger? They came much later—possibly when Jesus was a toddler (Matthew 2:11). Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh each had spiritual meaning: • Gold for His kingship • Frankincense for His divinity • Myrrh for His future sacrifice 3. The Star of Bethlehem fulfilled an ancient prophecy? It was foretold in Numbers 24:17: “A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.” God used that heavenly sign to guide the wise men straight to His Son. 4. The angels played a major role in the Christmas story? An angel appeared to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds—each time saying, “Do not be afraid.” The message of Christmas is one of peace and assurance that God is with us. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” – Luke 2:14 5. The first Christmas gift came from God Himself? Before there were presents under trees, there was the greatest gift ever given—God’s Son, Jesus. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” – John 3:16 6. The journey to Bethlehem was about 90 miles? Mary and Joseph traveled roughly that far from Nazareth to Bethlehem—by foot and donkey—in obedience to God’s plan. Their journey reminds us that faith sometimes requires endurance and trust. 7. The message of Christmas is meant for the whole world? The angels declared it clearly: “Good news of great joy that will be for all the ”people”—Luke 2:10 Christmas is a universal celebration of hope, redemption, and love through Christ. 8. The birth of Jesus fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies! From His birthplace in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) to His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14) and even His lineage from David (Jeremiah 23:5), Jesus’ arrival was not random—it was God’s perfect plan foretold centuries in advance. “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” – Micah 5:2 9. The name “Jesus” means “The Lord saves.” When the angel told Joseph to name the baby Jesus, it revealed His divine mission—to save His people from their sins. “You are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21 10. The title “Emmanuel” means “God with us.” This is one of the most comforting truths of Christmas—that God didn’t stay distant. He came down to live among us, feel our pain, and bring us salvation. “They will call him Emmanuel (which means ‘God with us’).” – Matthew 1:23 11. The angel Gabriel played a key role in announcing Jesus’ birth. Gabriel was sent by God to both Mary and Zechariah, announcing the miraculous births of Jesus and John the Baptist—showing that God’s plan unfolds with divine timing. “The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.’” – Luke 1:30 12. The Star of Bethlehem was a sign from heaven. The wise men followed the star as it led them to Jesus. It symbolized the light of Christ shining into a dark world. “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.” – Matthew 2:10 13. The gospel message began at Christmas. Christmas marks the beginning of God’s rescue mission for humanity—the day Heaven’s hope stepped into Earth’s story. “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:10 14. Peace on earth is God’s promise through Jesus. When the angels sang to the shepherds, it wasn’t about worldly peace, but peace between God and humankind through Christ. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:14 15. Christmas points forward to the Cross and Resurrection. Jesus was born to die for our sins and rise again. The manger and the cross are both parts of one beautiful story—God’s love for us. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45 TAKE AWAY: Christmas is more than a holiday—it’s the celebration of God becoming man to save us. So as we gather, sing, and give gifts this season, let’s remember the true miracle of Christmas: Emmanuel—God with us. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” – John 1:14
As the most wonderful time of the year draws near, we are once more surrounded by festive parties, joyful music, and dazzling lights. However, the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is the deeper and more significant reason why Christmas is genuinely worth celebrating, which goes beyond the decorations and festivities. 1. It Reminds Us of God's Perfect Love The pinnacle of God's love for humanity is Christmas. John 3:16 reminds us of this: "Because God loved the world so much, He gave His one and only Son, who will grant eternal life to those who believe in Him." The extent of God's compassion is symbolized by the birth of Jesus in a lowly manger. It serves as a reminder that God loves each and every one of us, regardless of who we are or where we come from. 2. It Brings Hope to the World Christmas is a time of hope in a world that is frequently full of uncertainty and difficulties. The angels' advice to the shepherds, "Do not be afraid," is still relevant today. The arrival of Christ gives us confidence that God's promises will always come to pass and that light will always triumph over darkness. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever and He never fails in fulfilling His promises. 3. It Encourages Giving and Serving Giving, not just material gifts but also time, love, and kindness, is what the true spirit of Christmas is all about. We emulate God's generosity and demonstrate His love in our deeds when we give to others and share what we have. 4. It Strengthens Family and Community Bonds Christmas is a time to come together as a family and as a school community to celebrate unity, thankfulness, and faith. It serves as a reminder that two of the best gifts we can give each other are love and unity. 5. It Directs Us Back to the Savior Our Lord Jesus Christ, whose birth altered the path of human history, is at the center of Christmas. The manger in Bethlehem serves as a reminder of God's modest but effective plan to save everyone. Christmas is about a Savior who lives and reigns now, not just a baby born a long time ago. A Meaningful Celebration As we celebrate Christmas this year, may we not only enjoy the festivities but also reflect on its true meaning — God’s love revealed through His Son, Jesus Christ. Let us carry that love, hope, and joy beyond the season and into our daily lives. “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” — Luke 2:11
Parenting has never been simple, but it seems even more difficult in the fast-paced, technologically advanced, and ever-evolving world of today. "Am I doing enough?" is a question that many parents ask themselves or "How can I steer my child in the proper direction when the world appears so different from my childhood?" Due to scholastic expectations, social media comparisons, and the continual stimulation of digital life, the majority of children nowadays experience stress from an early age. We have seen in the news worldwide how anxiety, depression, and sadness have affected most children of this present time due to various factors that parents cannot fathom. Here are the Top 5 relevant dilemmas parents face today, and some heartening ways to deal with them — with love, patience, and faith as our anchors. 1. Managing Family Time and Work Due to long workdays, extra projects, and electronic distractions, spending meaningful time with family frequently suffers. While balancing obligations, parents find it difficult to be present. Plan purposeful family activities, such as a weekend "NO GADGET" time, bedtime tales, or dinner together. Children spell love T-I-M-E, so keep that in mind. Let us enjoy our children as they are still young, because when they become grown-ups, they will desire to be with their friends more than they are with their parents. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12 2. Balancing Kids' Screen Time Kids are spending more time on screens than ever before, whether it is through smartphone games, YouTube, TikTok, or Facebook Reels. The majority are scrolling constantly and endlessly. Even if technology can be instructive, over use of it can cause social disengagement and short attention spans. Establish explicit screen time limitations and promote offline pastimes like reading, painting, athletics, or housework. Engage them to dynamic activities like sports or any outdoor activities. Show children that life exists outside of the screen. “I will set before my eyes no vile thing.” – Psalm 101:3 3. Developing Faith in the Contemporary World When culture encourages worldly pleasures and self-centeredness, many parents are concerned about how to keep their kids grounded in Christian ideals. Integrate spirituality into everyday activities, not just Sunday rituals. Together, pray, tell Bible stories, and share your personal relationship with Christ with your kids. Create a family devotion so that children can hear God's Word . “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6 4. Handling Academic Pressure Managing the pressure of academics can be stressful for parents to strike a balance between their expectations and their child's actual learning pace. Sometimes, the quest for high grades might cause dissatisfaction. Today's kids are subjected to strong peer pressure and worldly ideals that go against Christian beliefs. As discerning parents, we can safeguard our children without isolating them by preparing them to stand their ground. We have to mold their character so they can be lights in the world, not to protect them from it. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 5. Feeling Guilty or Inadequate as a Parent In private, many parents question whether they are doing enough or correctly. Parenting styles and social media comparisons can exacerbate these fears. Being a parent is about grace, not perfection. Where we fall short, God makes up for it. When we give our children to Him, He uses our frailties to mold us and our children. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 Our God has blessed us with wonderful children and it is our great responsibility to raise and nurture them in the way God wants them to be. Always ask our Abba Father to sustain us with wisdom and grace in instilling godly perspectives to them.