Sometimes food on special may be more economical than processing your own when you consider all costs. Also consider purchasing previously owned items and vehicles when they need to be replaced. You can't purchase everything you need this way, but can get substantial use from some items at greatly reduced prices. You need to get away and relax, but smaller, shorter and perhaps more frequent recreational activities can replace the one big two-week trip. It's important to get ideas from everyone in the family when planning family budgets.
Children have needs and expectations, just like parents.
The University of Minnesota Extension Service has several publications that can help you create family budgets when faced with reduced or limited income.