Many parents look forward to the beginning of a new school year. However, many parents also they dread the prospects of back-to-school shopping. Some parents are experts at the basics of back-to-school shopping while others struggle with it. You can use some of these tips for back-to-school shopping so you can get the job done without struggling.

Look through current wardrobe

You and your child might want to look through your their current wardrobe to find out what needs to be replaced. Some of their jeans, shirts, and socks may still be usable. When you know what your child actually needs, it will be easier to go to the next step – talking to the children to see what they want.

Talk to your children

Before you head out to the mall, you might want to have a talk with your children to find out what new items they’d like. Of course, you can expect them to want the latest clothes that they believe their friends will have, or that they think will make them look cool. Let them know what you can afford and ask them which items are “necessary” and which items are “desired.”

Make a list

Make a list of all the clothing your children need. Then make a list of the school supplies. You may want to give the children a certain amount of money to spend on “desired” items but explain that once that money is gone they won’t get more. This will allow them to get some things that they want and definitely things they need.

Create a budget

Determine how much money you have available to spend on clothing, shoes, and supplies based on the list you made. Depending upon the ages of the children, plan to spend a certain amount per child, and then add a little extra for older children since their clothing will probably cost more.

Inform children of budget

Let the children know how much money you have to spend for their clothes and supplies. If they’re older, you may want to have them help you keep track of what you’re spending and how much money is left. This will help them with math skills and help you decide what else they can get. If there are certain items they want that you don’t have the money for, suggest that they spend their own money for those items.

It won’t be long before you’ll have to spend money on back-to-school items. Learning the basics of back-to-school shopping can make the task less stressful. After a few years your skills at saving money for school items will increase and you’ll be able to share your knowledge with others.

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