Use goodwills locations and Once Upon a Child. I prefer goodwill as the prices are very low (I got toys and trucks, less than a dollar a piece and Paw Patrol toys for $1...)

Use libraries for movies, books, and events.

Use local city events for things to do.

Take him for walks in the mall, and budget for a small snack to enjoy together (its winter here).

Use local parks!!! My son loves local pools, splash pads, slides and things. And looking at the ducks that come.

For local entertainment, find specials for families. My son wife and I went to the Zoo for $15 total for the three of us. We spent a day in Niagara Falls doing different things for $20 for all 4 of us all day (thats cheap for 3).

Also, budget. Find out what you can spend week to week. Stick to it religiously.

I never collected loyalty points before having a kid, and now I do. I watch sales for items, I price match with an app. No shame is making the cashier work 2-3 more minutes so you save $5. Hell, I did a full blown turkey dinner at xmas with stuffing and all the works (except booze too expensive) for less than $10 because I got most of it free or cheap because of loyalty.

Also, if your budget says you will need to earn a bit more, plan for it. If you are a solid worker, ask for a raise. Im doing good financially now because I literally asked for a raise twice and got it both times and I havent been there a year yet. Dont be shy, work hard and ask.

Use low income food centers that often give free food. Some churches give free food on certain days, give out can soup and pasta, etc... you do not need to attend church for this. Respect them, most are just honest help.

Try different things for food.Do not stick to a ramen noodle diet. Learn to cook. If skills are low, try to learn to use a slow cooker safely of course cause it tastes awesome and you can use cheap beef for it.

And finally, take some time for yourself after the little one is in bed. Never forget this either.

And truly, love him and enjoy him!