6 Tips to Save on Back-to-School Supplies

 Pencils, crayons, pens, and notebooks mean it's that time again! All parents know that back-to-school shopping can add up quickly. However, there are things you can do to minimize the cost. This school year, save yourself some money with the following tips.

Stick to the list. Any item not on the list provided by your child's teacher probably isn't needed. Although kids may beg for extra supplies, make a rule that if something isn't on the list, you won't buy it. They can have fun picking out the items that are actually needed.

• If a list wasn't given out before the first day of school, there's no need to get carried away and purchase a bunch of stuff your child might not ever use. Get the list as soon as possible; you'll be in a position to pick up items when they're on sale.
• Contact the school or look at the school's website if you haven't received a copy of the list. Many schools now provide a downloadable version on their website
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Minimize the Cost of Shopping for Back-to-School Clothes

  Every year parents deal with the challenge of buying back-to-school clothes. Stores are crowded, items are expensive, and you know your kids will probably outgrow everything before the clothes wear out. However, there are things you can do to minimize the cost and avoid the crowds.

• Set a budget. As with anything else, the first step to limiting how much you spend is to set a budget and stick to it.  

 Consider how much you'll need to spend upfront as well as requirements for purchases during the school year. Stretch that budget as far as possible by only buying what you really need and by shopping when the sales occur.
 

• Assess your current situation. What does your child currently have? What fits? What can be reused for the new school year? Figure out what you're going to need, make a list, and keep it with you. 

 When anything on your list goes on sale, you'll be in the position to take advantage of the situation....