I remember when Suzzane and Charlie where in school and even David’s children how back-to-school season can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you start adding up everything your family needs. New clothe and school supplies. Lunch items or lunch money for school lunches. Socks and Shoes and backpacks. Activities the kids are in and the list can grow quickly.

Over the years, I’ve learned that saving money is not always about finding one huge deal. Most of the time, it is about making small choices that add up. It is about being intentional. It is about shopping smarter. And it is about remembering that creating a good school year does not require spending more than your budget allows.

Start With What You Already Have

Before heading to the store, take inventory because if your like me you might be surprised by what you already have.

Check: Backpacks because even though one child used it one year it doesn’t mean it can’t be used again.

Folders can be cleaned out and reused.

Pencils should be kept and even if they are small they can be used.

Crayon can be added to boxes missing colors to make complete boxes.

Notebooks can be purchased throughout the year when on sale and stored for school

Clothing go through everything including shoes and socks and if something is to small but there is a younger child see if it fits them.

Shoes can be saved from year to year if there only used during school time but remember feet grow fast.

Remember sometimes a quick look around your home can save you from buying things you do not need and as you find things make a before you shop of what you have and what you need to get. Shopping without a plan can lead to spending more than you intended which is why you need to create a list and stick with it.

Separate your list into categories:

School supplies. Then clothing and shoes. Lunch items, snacks and anything you need for meals. Classroom needs including anything the teachers need. Personal items including hair care and bath and body works. Alist helps you focus on what your family actually needs and stops endless wandering in the stores.

Shop Smart for School Supplies

You do not have to buy everything at once purchase items throughout the year when its on sale. Watch for sales and compare prices. Purchase only what is needed and consider buying extra of items your family uses often when the price is right. Simple supplies like pencils, paper, and folders can often be found at affordable prices. Before shopping always check the clearance aisles.

Stretch Clothing Budgets

Children grow quickly, which means clothing shopping can become expensive here is a few ideas to save you money:

Shop your child’s closet first and if there are clothes that are too small or something they will not wear hand them down to another child. Look for sales and purchase versatile pieces that can be used in different ways. Purchase a size up when appropriate. Mix new items with things they already own. The goal is not having the largest wardrobe. The goal is having clothing that works. Shopping Resale Stores and Goodwill is okay.

Save on Lunches and Snacks

Back-to-school lunches can add up but planning ahead can help. Try to prepare snacks at home. Purchase family-size packages. Use reusable containers. Plan simple meals that will leave left-overs for lunch. Create a list of lunch ideas your family enjoys because small changes can make a big difference over time.

Use What Works for Your Family

Every family has a different budget and every family has different needs. There is no one perfect way to prepare for school. Maybe you shop early which my mother in law and I did. Or you shop a little at a time which we did as well and we used layaway when we could find one. We would re-use supplies and we would find creative ways to make things work. What matters is finding what works for your home.

Remember What Matters Most

The first day of school is not remembered because of the newest backpack or the most expensive supplies. Children remember feeling loved. They remember encouragement. They remember the traditions and moments their families created. A successful school year is built with preparation, patience, and love. So as you prepare for another school year, give yourself grace.

Do what you can. Use what you have. Celebrate the little victories. Because those little moments become the big memories.

Grateful, Thankful, and Blessed.

Thank you,

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates