5 Back-to-School Shopping Tips That'll Save You Money & Time!
5 Back-to-School Shopping Tips To Save Money!
Time to start buying school supplies - and don't forget the clothing, bags and decisions and arguments about brand name or no name products.
If you are a parent of a child going to school for the first time, or if this is your first time shopping, you could benefit from some helpful advice on where and what to buy for their children. It is not too bad if your child is at grade school as you already have some experience.
Check out these five great ideas for saving both your money and your mind while shopping.
GET AN EARLY START
It's never too early to start looking for great deals at your favorite discounters, but if you wait too long you'll find empty shelves. Get going before it's too late.
Dollar stores will be a good place to start for your pens, paper and other items. All of the goods you need will be available from August.
If you've waited too long already your best bet is stationary or office supply stores. While they may not always be the cheapest they're more likely to keep their supplies in stock. You'll also save yourself running around since they're sure to have everything you need.
GET OUT THAT MEMBERSHIP CARD
Buying in bulk at membership stores will save you money if you have friends who are also shopping for their kids.
They may not have everything you need in stock but you will save money by splitting cartons of pens, paper and other essentials.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Pre-packaged purchasing systems in school are a good idea as this can save money. Ask if your school has one and the cost can be shared between students and parents.
No more dealing with arguments about colors, brands and so on, and you'll spare yourself the trouble of shopping around to find supplies.
END OF SEASON BARGAINS
Grab some great deals on your children's swimming, gymnastic and general sporting gear at the end of season sales. Now is the time to take advantage of these reductions.
Look for double-duty clothes that can be worked into fall and winter wardrobes as well. Skirts worn with thick tights, tank tops worn layered under long sleeve shirts and sweaters or cropped pants tucked into tall boots are all trends that move summer staples into trendy fall and winter wardrobes.
As a note of caution: make sure you're aware of school dress codes when making fashion choices. Some schools forbid bare shoulders or skirts shorter than a required length.
FINDING THE RIGHT BAG
Don't forget the bag! Kids bags are often far too large and heavy for them which leads to sore muscles and even headaches. Always choose a backpack that sits no lower than the waist and look for styles with padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for added support.
Teens and college bound students may prefer the look of hobo bags and slouchy purses, but heavy books are best carried in a backpack that is properly worn. Carrying a backpack on one shoulder is just as damaging as a purse. If you still prefer a sac or bag find one that has a strap that crosses over the body to spread the weight.
Have fun with back-to-school shopping and don't get to stressed. Look forward to the excitement and possibilities ahead of you in the new school year.
About the Author
Donna Brancheau has been teaching & tutoring in the San Diego area for 30 years. For insightful tutoring advice, visit her tutoring web site. Also, you can get unique copies of this article or other wonderful <a href:'http://www.contentspooling.net/public.php?id=179&c=education">education articles</a> to use on your web site!
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