Simple Ways to Save Money&Go Green for the Back to School Season

Now that we’re only two weeks away from going back to school, your kids are probably ogling at the new supplies on display, and demanding (or rather, politely asking) for the supplies needed on their lists. Getting your child ready for school shouldn’t be a teeth-grinding experience- rather, see it as a practical experience for your kids.

“If money’s tight and you’re on a budget, be practical. You’re not going to save money if you’re shopping on impulse,” Sherrie Le Masurier, a professional organizer at http://www.familysanitysavers.com/ and mom of two teenagers, warns. “Before you have do any back to school shopping, do a complete inventory of what you already have. Have the kids try stuff on- what doesn’t fit, what do you really need?”

Discuss the difference of ‘needs’ and ‘wants’ with your kids. Give older kids a little flexibility on how they’re going to divide their budget. They’ll soon realize if they spend more on shoes, they’ll have less money for clothing. It will be a good lesson to remember.

Encourage your kids to save their allowance and buy something that’s not on the list, and help them check out store flyers to find the best deal. Many retail outlets also post their specials online- why not set up a contest to see which kids can find the cheapest price for a handful of items on the list.

Don’t leave shopping to the last minute, because then you won’t have the selection, and you’ll have to fight more crowds. Teaming up with a friend for back to school shopping is also a good idea, especially if you both have kids around the same size- this will allow you to buy multi-packs of socks and underwear (as an example).

Garage sales are another source for great, affordable finds. Make your child’s wardrobe go further by choosing classic styles, such as favourite solid colours mixing and matching with the rest of their clothes. Splurge on accessories, like a cool scarf or belt.

The rage these days is going garbage-free for school lunches, because it maximizes your child’s impact on the planet (another plus is that it’s very garbage friendly). Instead of hitting the dollar store, splurge on stackable, leak-proof containers that are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe. Assign a different colour for each family member, and pack everything in a sturdy, PVC free lunch box cooler, and pour juice into a stainless-steel water bottle. Be sure to label everything with your child’s name.

(Source: West Coast Families)