Identify the essentials… If your child doesn’t need a new pair of school shoes, don’t add it to the shopping list. Make a list of what they really need and stick to it to keep costs down.
Buy quality… There’s a lot of truth in the saying, ‘you get what you pay for.’ Go for the more expensive backpack with the lifetime warranty, choose notebooks with the durable plastic covers. You may spend more now, but you won’t have to buy replacements later and you’ll end up coming out ahead.
Leave the kids at home… Shopping with kids can be distracting and time-consuming. Children might see items they want that weren’t on the original list, leading to impulse buys; kids may have specific preferences for branded or character-themed school supplies, which tend to be pricier than generic or unbranded alternatives. Convincing kids to opt for more affordable options can sometimes be a challenge. Save money and time by leaving them home if possible.
Shop at home first… Before hitting the shops, search through your child’s school bag, room, desk and the office to see if you already have items you need for the school year, such as stationery and notebooks.
Buy in bulk… You can save big by buying in bulk. It may not be realistic to store 20 boxes of notepads and 50 of pens, but by teaming up with other parents you can share supplies and save.
