Kiasu Parents’ Guide to Financial Preps Before the Baby Arrives

#1: INSURANCE COVERAGE

When it comes to expecting a baby, it’s always wise to be prepared for the unexpected. That’s why maternity insurance is a must-have. For those who love being ahead of the game, like many Kiasu parents, maternity insurance is essential. Maternity insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind during this significant life event.

Take, for example, Income’s Maternity 360. With a single premium, this plan offers three years of comprehensive coverage for both mother and baby, including protection against death, 10 pregnancy complications, and 23 congenital diseases. Plus, it includes a hospital care benefit, ensuring you’re covered in various situations.

#2: HOSPITAL BAG

Packing your hospital bag is an exciting step, but it’s important to plan based on your expected stay. Most mothers spend 2 to 3 days in the hospital after giving birth, though a C-section may require a longer stay. Fathers planning to stay with their partners should also consider this when packing.

Think about what will make you comfortable and prepared for those few days. For example, when my friend Lea was expecting her first child, she packed cozy pajamas, snacks, and even a favorite pillow from home, making her stay much more comfortable.

#3: HOME PREPARATION

Bringing your baby home for the first time is a thrilling moment, but it’s crucial to ensure your home is ready. This goes beyond just cleaning; it’s about creating a safe, welcoming environment.

Start by minimizing furniture and switching to non-toxic products (e.g., disinfectants and natural cleaning products). Less furniture means fewer places for germs and dust to gather. For laundry: wash sheets, blankets, and your baby’s clothes with mild detergent to avoid skin irritation. Then, consider professional cleaning if necessary.

#4: EMERGENCY FUND

Life with a baby can be unpredictable, and having an emergency fund is crucial. Aim to save enough to cover three to six months’ worth of your take-home pay. If that seems daunting, start with a smaller goal, like S$1,000, then gradually increase it.

#5: BABY-CENTERED BUDGET

Adjusting your budget to include baby-related expenses is essential. Consider ongoing costs like health insurance, doctor visit copays, diapers, formula, food, clothing, and daycare. Don’t forget one-time expenses for setting up the nursery and stocking up on baby gear. My cousin Nik created a detailed budget before her baby was born and found it incredibly helpful in managing her finances smoothly.

#6: BENEFICIARIES UPDATE

Major life changes, like having a baby, are a perfect time to review and update your beneficiaries on life insurance and retirement plans. You might still have your parents, siblings, or even a previous partner listed instead of your child. When my brother updated his beneficiaries after his first child was born, it gave him great comfort knowing his family’s future was secured.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Preparing for a baby is an exciting journey filled with many steps, but with a little planning and forethought, you can ensure you’re ready for the adventure ahead.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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Measures and precautions during in-flight turbulence

interior of Singapore Airlines flight SQ321

The issue of safety during turbulence on flights has come to the forefront recently.

Unless you’ve been a caveman/woman, you would have been aware that there was a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore where one passenger died and many others were injured after experiencing severe turbulence.

Experts are sharing what passengers and flight crews can do in these situations and here’s what you need to know.

Don’t underestimate your seat belts

Experts noted that passengers should keep their seat belts fastened when sitting.

Even if the seat belt is a little loose, it effectively prevents serious injuries during strong turbulence.

A lot of people forget this on long flights, especially in business class where you can lie down.

Furthermore, you should keep your seat belt on even during meals, to reduce the risk of unexpected turbulence.

Buckle up when sitting, even if the fasten seat belt sign is off.

It’s also important to listen to the safety instructions (we’re all guilty of not paying attention, aren’t we?).

What if I’m traveling with kids?

Babies under 3 should be held by their parents and have their infant seat belts fastened.

Babies are too small and not strong enough to sit alone, so they need to be belted to an adult.

The infant seat belt keeps the baby from getting separated from their parent during turbulence.

If your child is in a bassinet, take them out and hold them on your lap with the seat belt attached during turbulence.

child bassinet seat in flight

Image Credits: romper.com

Clear air turbulence, which may have hit that Singapore Airlines flight, actually happens pretty frequently.

That’s another reason passengers are told to keep their seat belts on even if the sign is off.

But people don’t always listen to this advice since it’s seemingly more comfortable to remove it.

What if I’m up and about?

If turbulence happens while people are up walking around, experts advise folks to crouch down low and hold onto an armrest or headrest.

However, don’t grab onto the food cart.

And it’s best not to go to the bathroom if turbulence is likely, like over oceans.

If you’re heading to the bathroom and it starts, go right back to your seat.

It’s also safer if you control your water intake so you won’t have to go to the bathroom as much on the plane.

If you’re waiting in line for the bathroom and a flight attendant ushers you back into your seat, heed advice and return.

Cabin crew’s role in handling turbulence

Cabin crew are trained to respond safely during turbulence.

There are protocols to follow.

The crew also knows where the “stronghold points” are located around the cabin, like small handles in bathrooms and galleys.

If you want to know exactly where, ask, because passengers can use those too.

The crew also receives advance warnings about turbulence through onboard equipment.

It shows when, how strong, and how long turbulence will last.

The pilot typically informs the crew who will announce it over the PA system for passengers to take note.

During mild bumps, hot items aren’t served.

For moderate or worse turbulence, all service is suspended and crew members have 5 to 10 minutes to put away open galley items. 

Even during tense moments, the crew needs to maintain high service quality and reassure passengers it’s fine.

While in-flight turbulence can be an unsettling experience, understanding and adhering to the recommended measures and precautions can enhance your safety.

Always heed the crew’s instructions, keep your seatbelt fastened, and stay informed about the flight’s conditions.

Safe travels!

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Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty has a new hair care line with products from $33

Fenty Hair

Rihanna has done it again.

The multi-talented superstar behind the successful Fenty Beauty brand is expanding her empire with the introduction of a new hair care line.

With products starting at just $33, Fenty Beauty continues its commitment to inclusivity, offering a range of hair care solutions designed for all hair types and textures.

This new collection promises to deliver the same excellence that fans have come to expect from the Fenty name.

Here are some of the latest must-haves from Rihanna’s ever-growing beauty empire.

THE CONTROLLING TYPE HAIR-THICKENING EDGE CONTROL GEL

THE CONTROLLING TYPE HAIR-THICKENING EDGE CONTROL GEL

Price: $33

First up, meet the hair gel that’s as on top of it as you are.

This hair-thickening edge control gel lays, smooths, and locks your strands in place all day long without a single flake.

And when your edges are feeling weak, this formula comes on strong, thickening them up with a blend of amino acids, proteins, and antioxidants.

Tame flyaways, achieve long-lasting hold and enjoy rich, bright notes of sparkling yuzu, golden amber, soothing florals, coconut, vanilla, and creamy sandalwood.

THE HOMECURL CURL-DEFINING CREAM

THE HOMECURL CURL-DEFINING CREAM

Price: $51

Have curly hair?

Meet your new BFF.

The HomeCurl Curl-Defining Cream is a silicone-free gel cream that shapes, defines, and enhances your curls in one step.

This total softie gives your mane a touchable body and bounce, while its Replenicore-5 formula fights frizz and repairs split ends.

No more crunchy, drying creams for this is the only curl-taming hero you will ever need.

Hydrating, softening, and conditioning, it provides an all-day touchable hold and definition, powered by wild mango butter to deeply nourish your curls.

THE PROTECTIVE TYPE 5-IN-1 HEAT PROTECTANT STYLER

THE PROTECTIVE TYPE 5-IN-1 HEAT PROTECTANT STYLER

Price: $51

Or consider taming your tresses with this multitasking miracle worker.

The Protective Type 5-in-1 Heat Protectant Styler is the universal prep step your hair needs before any hot styling.

This lightweight cream shields strands up to 450°F while smoothing, defrizzing, detangling, and hydrating.

Powered by nourishing Moringa and Cranberry Oils, it repairs split ends and reduces breakage for stronger, shinier hair.

Prep, protect, and perfect—this 5-in-1 styler has your styling routine on lock.

THE RICHER ONE MOISTURE REPAIR DEEP CONDITIONER

THE RICHER ONE MOISTURE REPAIR DEEP CONDITIONER

Price: $53

Thirsty hair, meet your new hydration hero.

The Richer One Moisture Repair Deep Conditioner is an ultra-rich formula that melts into dry, damaged strands, plumping them up for a thicker, healthier look and feel.

Powered by the Replenicore-5 complex, this decadent treatment repairs split ends, reduces breakage, and leaves hair more manageable.

The warm, ambery floral fragrance adds a luxurious vibe to your self-care routine.

Just a little goes a long way, so you can pamper your locks without weighing them down.

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty’s new line, with its affordable starting price of $33, allows fans and beauty enthusiasts alike to look forward to enhancing their hair care routines with products that embody the same excellence that has made Fenty Beauty quite a name to remember. Rihanna’s latest launch invites everyone to experience expertly crafted hair care.

For the full range, visit fentybeauty.com/en-sg/collections/hair-shop-all.

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4 sunscreen sticks $45 & under to swipe & go when you need quick protection from the sunshine

Sunscreen Sticks

Sunshine calls for immediate action, especially when you’re on the move and need protection that’s quick.

And that’s why you need sunscreen sticks, your trusty sidekick against harmful UV rays.

With convenience at its core, these pocket-sized protectors are a game-changer for anyone looking to swipe and go.

We’ve rounded up four fabulous sunscreen sticks $45 and under, that promise to shield your skin with ease, so you can enjoy the great outdoors with peace of mind.

CAUDALIE Vinosun Protect Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50

Vinosun Protect Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50

Price: $34

First up, you will want to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with this invisible, high-performance Caudalie Vinosun Protect Stick.

Formulated with organic grapeseed oil, this fragrance-free, water-resistant formula glides on smoothly and leaves no greasy residue.

Ideal for shielding your face, lips, and sensitive areas like moles, scars, and tattoos, this convenient stick is ideal for on-the-go application.

Reapply every 2 hours for all-day broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection.

SUPERGOOP! 100% Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Price: $38

Or escape the sun’s glare with this hydrating, on-the-go SUPERGOOP! 100% Mineral Sunscreen Stick.

This water-resistant formula uses a mineral-based blend of avocado, chia seed, and olive oils to nourish and moisturize skin while providing SPF 50 protection.

Toss it in your gym bag or work tote for easy, mess-free application to your face, lips, and ears before your next outdoor adventure.

The smooth, blendable texture leaves a non-greasy finish so you can stop worrying about unflattering, oily shine.

SHISEIDO Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

Price: $40

You can also consider this clear suncare stick from SHISEIDO.

Powered by breakthrough SynchroShield™ Technology, this SPF 50+ PA++++ formula boosts its protective veil when exposed to water, sweat, or heat, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays.

Enriched with Botanical Profense CL, a botanical complex that helps prevent wrinkle and dark spot formation, this lightweight, invisible stick also safeguards against environmental aggressors like microscopic particles that can lead to roughness, dullness, and loss of resilience.

Infused with nourishing licorice root extract, it glides on comfortably on any skin tone.

Forget messy lotions or creams, this clear, convenient stick is your new go-to for all-day sun protection.

SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40

Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40

Price: $45

Last but not least, we have the SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40.

This travel-friendly stick delivers weightless sun protection that glides on smoothly and leaves behind a natural, colorless, scentless finish.

No white cast!

The expertly crafted formula helps reduce the appearance of oil and shine, making it ideal for all skin types and tones.

Swipe it on over makeup for all-day SPF reapplication without any transfer.

This velvety sunscreen stick is the secret to feeling protected under the sun’s uninviting rays.

As the sun continues to reign supreme in the sky, having the right armor in your daily arsenal becomes non-negotiable. The abovementioned sunscreen sticks we’ve highlighted offer not only hassle-free application but also proper protection. Dashing to a last-minute outdoor gathering? Taking a stroll in the park? These $45 and under options ensure you can swipe, protect, and proceed with your day fast.

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Practical Tips for Cutting Down Medical Costs in Singapore

Navigating healthcare expenses can be challenging, but there are several strategies to help you save money on medical costs in Singapore. Here’s a guide to making the most of available resources and adopting cost-effective practices.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE CHECK-UPS & SUBSIDIES

The Singaporean government has established a robust healthcare system with multiple layers of financial protection to ensure citizens are well-protected against high medical costs.

  • The first layer includes significant subsidies for hospitalization, outpatient care, and long-term care. You can receive up to 80% subsidy for hospitalization at public hospitals (B2/C wards), ensuring high-quality care regardless of the ward chosen.
  • MediShield Life offers lifelong health insurance for all Singaporeans, covering large hospitalization bills and expensive outpatient treatments like dialysis and chemotherapy. Additionally, CareShield Life, launched in mid-2020, provides lifetime cash payouts for individuals with severe disabilities.
  • MediSave scheme helps Singaporeans set aside part of their salary each month to cover medical expenses, including surgery, hospitalization, health screenings, and medical insurance, benefiting both you and your immediate family.
  • MediFund acts as a safety net for those who still face financial difficulties after utilizing other subsidies and payments. From 2020, ElderFund also supports the severely disabled with financial difficulties.

If you have a chronic condition like high blood pressure or diabetes, the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) now covers all Singaporeans with selected chronic conditions, irrespective of income. Polyclinics and public Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs) also offer substantial subsidies based on means-testing and age, with special rates for Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation seniors.

CONSULT MEDICAL SPECIALISTS WISELY

Singapore offers a wide range of medical specialties in both public and private hospitals. Costs vary significantly depending on the specialty and facility. For example, consultations with dermatologists range from S$125 to S$250, while ophthalmologists charge between S$80 and S$350. Choose specialists judiciously based on your medical needs and budget.

EXAMINE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN

Health insurance plans should align with your specific healthcare and lifestyle requirements. For instance, if you don’t plan on having children, maternity coverage isn’t necessary. Regular travelers might prefer plans with worldwide coverage.

Every Singaporean is covered under MediShield Life, a mandatory government health plan covering large medical expenses. However, its benefits are basic and tailored to Class B2 and C wards in public hospitals. To avoid high out-of-pocket costs for higher-class wards, consider enhancing your coverage with an Integrated Shield plan.

SAVE ON HOSPITAL TYPES

While healthcare quality is paramount, you can save significantly on room costs by choosing semi-private rooms or wards over private rooms. This can reduce your hospitalization expenses considerably without compromising the quality of care.

OPT FOR GENERIC DRUGS

Generic drugs are significantly cheaper than their brand-name counterparts while offering the same medical efficacy. For example, 20 tablets of Panadol (paracetamol) cost S$7.90, whereas 100 tablets of generic Paracetamol cost only slightly more at S$11.50. Always ask your doctor for generic alternatives or request a prescription to purchase medications from local pharmacies.

PRIORITIZE PREVENTIVE HEALTH

While health insurance and subsidies help manage costs, the best long-term strategy is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating well, staying active, and avoiding unhealthy habits can reduce the need for medical treatment and keep healthcare costs low. Remember, prevention is better than cure!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By leveraging government schemes, choosing the right insurance, opting for cost-effective treatment options, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can manage and reduce your medical expenses effectively in Singapore.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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