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I don't like school shopping. It's expensive and I end up getting hostile at my own kids, when I really want to yell at the school district for expecting parents to buy so much. Copy paper, for example. However, I have successfully completed shopping for my kids and...still have a couple dollars left to buy food for the week. Yay me!
Here's a few things I did to
1. Shop for supplies during the 'Tax-free Holiday', if your state has one. This may not sound like it will save you a ton of money, and to be honest-it doesn't. But, in my world: it all adds up! So, I got the basics (paper, folders, pens, notebooks) from Wal-Mart for under 50 dollars, and tax free! And frankly, some states/cities taxes are crazy high!
2. You don't have to buy 5 packs of notebook paper, 4 glue sticks, and 24 pencils right now! There is nothing the teacher or the school can do to force you to bring any bulk amount of the supplies to school. Buy one pack now, and send a note to the teacher to let you know when the class/your child needs more. (See #5)
3. If you truly can not afford something, talk to the teacher, counselor or principle - most schools have enough supplies to supplement what you can not afford to purchase all at once. Often, schools can also refer you to a charity that may be able to help.
4. Coupons and dollar stores are your friend. There is no reason to pay more than $1 for a pack of notebook paper, or a pack a basic black ink pens. Wal-Mart has fair prices this time of year, but don't forget the dollar stores - they often have sales too! Add coupons to the awesome sales, and you can get some items pretty close to free. Oh yeah - FREE!
5. Ohhhh, did I hear sale? In about a month...all these lovely school supplies will be on CLEARANCE!! Stock up! Folders do not last forever, and filler paper goes quickly! As soon as it's on sale, buy it (if you can). It's also a good time to buy backpacks, those lovely zippered binders, and lunch boxes! Last year I got the fancy character folders, regular prices $1.50 - for 25 cents!
6. Resale shops. I swear by them for clothes for kids. Yes, I know...used items can be yucky. But, clothes can be washed...and paying $3 for a pair Arizona Jean Company jeans...makes this mommy super happy.
7. Don't worry...be happy. Seriously--you can give yourself a migraine or an ulcer or something stressing over things. Relax...it'll be okay!
You could also try some of these great giveaways:
Or, perhaps you're looking to give back a bit? Try Elmer's Bag it Forward
That's all for now, take care!
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