As I sit here writing this I can’t believe that we are not only more than halfway through the year but more than halfway through the summer. Which means one thing-back to school shopping. As a kid this was always my favorite thing to do but I know I drove my Dad crazy because of the bill we would rack up going to Target each summer.
So for those of you that are parents about to make that pilgrimage to Staples, Target, or hop online to Amazon here are a few ways to save.
1. See what you have leftover from last year both supplies and clothing: Before you even go to a store or open that web browser see what you ACTUALLY need. Odds are the kids might have a few items left over from the previous year that will save a repeat purchase
2. See what you have leftover from last year both supplies and clothing: Before you even go to a store or open that web browser see what you ACTUALLY need. Odds are the kids might have a few items left over from the previous year that will save a repeat purchase
3. Don’t wait until the last minute when there’s no sales or slim pickins: Start early. If you wait until the last minute you may not get the items you need or you’ll have to pay for rush shipping from whatever store you can find supplies.
4. Buy poster board and project supplies: Save yourself time later in the year and avoid that 10pm “Mom, I have a project due tomorrow and need poster board”. And if they don’t use them during the school year I’m sure they’ll come in handy for the kids to do an art project during the summer months.
5. Make a list of items they will need for after school activities: Those lovely lists that schools provide don’t (usually) take into account the activities that kids have after school. To save yourself the last minute hassle, find out what supplies or equipment they will need for various sports or clubs.
6. Invest in a good backpack: One that can be used over several years: Every year parents drop $30-$40 on a cheap backpack that they will have to toss at the end of year. If your child is a little older it might be time to invest in a good backpack. This will save time, money and you can also probably find one that’s better for your child’s back.
Bonus Tip: To be prepared for later in the school year revisit stores at the end of September to pick up leftover items so you can replenish or be prepared for next year
