5 Ways to Get a Jump Start on School Shopping

Entry #225, July 26, 2010

I don’t want to keep being the stater of the obvious.. but in 1 month my kids will be returning back to school.  Most summer’s I can’t wait for school to begin. This summer however, seemed to zoom by, and I can’t help feeling that I need to cram a lot in the next 4 weeks! I have 3 kids – a high schooler, a middle schooler, and a preschooler. With the wide range of ages, finding corners to cut is always a help.

One way my husband and I save money, and avoid the school shopping frenzy is to shop early, and plan..now!  Here’s 5 tips that help us, let me know if you have any you would like to add.

Determine what your kids really need!

1.) Have children try on their clothes from last year.

If you are a family who buys all new clothes every year, this step is not for you. We, on the other hand try to stretch clothes items that weren’t fully worn out. A good example is jeans – my older boys don’t wear out the knees, like they used to do when they were young. Most jeans can be recycled, and a few new one’s can be purchased to look like a whole new wardrobe!

2.)Purchase clothes little by little, each week until it’s time for school.

For us, buying 3 kids a wardrobe of clothes and school supplies in the middle of August is very daunting. Each weekend buy a few items, this will cut down on your spending, and you will avoid hitting the stores with every other parent in a month!

3.)See if your child’s school supply list in online or was handed out at the end of last year.

Often times, teacher’s have gotten wise and have included the supply list in the previous school year. If so, start shopping!

You may be able to shop now for school supplies

4.)Purchase clothes items at ‘unconventional’ stores.

If you go to a warehouse club store, such as Sam’s, BJ’s or Costco, they always have socks, pants, shorts, etc.. for kid’s.  These stores can offer great values because they sell in bulk.  Who knows you may be able to buy a larger pack of socks and split it amongst siblings.

5.)Have a plan.

Like everything else in life, you will feel less stressed, save money, and avoid the ‘panicked’ parents syndrome in a month. Figure out what each child needs, make a budget, start leisurely shopping now, and you might be able to take advantage of summer sales that are getting ready for the new fall lineup!

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