With a new school year starting soon, costs for new clothes
and schools supplies can add up quickly. According to a National Retail
Federation survey, the average family intends to spend about $527 this year for
back-to-school supplies.
Strategic purchases can save money and also provide an
opportunity to model for children how to use wise budget strategies.
First, it’s a good idea to involve children in making a list
of what they already have and what they need. Help them prioritize the list in
order of the items most needed, then draw up a budget.
Next, read through newspaper ads with your children and seek
the best sales for back-to-school clothes and supplies. You can also check
online for deals, then show children how to do comparison shopping for the best
prices.
Because of the speed at which children grow, it’s best to
resist buying fad clothing, which can be expensive. Show children that they can
buy more items if they buy fewer expensive pieces.
It’s VERY important to make sure the clothes you buy fall
within your school's dress code. Basic, durable and adjustable clothing can
stretch your dollars significantly.
Use every opportunity to impart “object lessons.” Your
children might want those colorful notebooks with logos or their favorite
heroes. But the plain notebooks may actually have more paper and be less
expensive. While shopping with your children, compare prices, count the number
of items and add up the bill. This will acquaint them with using math in their
daily lives.
Though students sometimes prefer to use messenger bags to
carry their books, be aware that this causes the weight of the bag to fall on
one shoulder and can lead to neck and back pain. Consider a two-strapped
backpack that distributes the weight more evenly over the body. As with other
items, remember that fad logos can add to the price of the bag.
Of course, using slightly worn hand-me-downs can save a lot
of money. Garage or yard sales are great sources for a vintage lunchbox or a
nearly new calculator.
For some items, like shoes, it is important to pay the
difference for good quality. For example, children love to wear inexpensive
flip-flops, but spending more for your children's shoes will likely provide
safety and allow for proper foot development. Don’t look to the future for
growing room. Buy shoes that are comfortable right away. It’s best to choose
shoes with a stiff heel, flexible toe and rigid in the middle for support.
If your children need a computer, consider shopping at an
outlet store where you can purchase a refurbished model. That can save you 50
to 60 percent from the retail price. If you are considering other high tech
tools, know your school's rules first. Some cell phones, iPods, and MP3 players
are banned from schools.
If your children insist on buying more expensive items,
consider having them put part of their allowance or paycheck toward the
purchase or have them eliminate a lower priority item from their list. This
will teach them the value of budgeting. It could also cause children to lose
interest in the item and forget how important it once seemed. If you don't need
to buy supplies now, it’s best to wait. School supplies are often placed on
clearance by mid-September. Above all, stay within your budget. Using a credit
card is good only if you know how you will pay it off. Otherwise, the interest
rates and fees may cancel out any savings you made from finding sales and
bargains.