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Back to school time is stressful enough for parents without factoring in financial expenses. From preparing your children mentally for the new year of challenges, keeping their minds fresh over the summer break and more, back to school is filled with many sets of challenges. Once you add in the financial aspect, back to school time can be downright dreadful to some.
Many educators are providing parents a list of necessary supplies as a way of allowing parents to prepare early for back to school. While these lists may limit parents as to which items they select, there are still ways to save on the items their children need for back to school. I have much experience with these school supplies lists. Read on for how I save on back to school supplies for my children.
Forget Brand Names
Unless your child’s teacher actually specifies that they need a particular brand of supplies, go with the cheaper model. Items such as loose leaf paper, composition notebooks, folders, rulers and more can be found at ridiculously cheap prices, as long as the teacher doesn’t actually mention that you need a specific brand.
Buy a Durable Book Bag
One place where you can save yourself quite a large sum is to purchase a durable book bag for your child right off the bat. I have seen what pounds and pounds of textbooks and notebooks can do to a once seemingly strong book bag. Read consumer reviews and select a book bag that will hold up to nine months of wear and tear. I would much rather pay $40 for a high quality book bag, then to have to purchase multiple cheaper bags throughout the year.
Reward Programs
Many big box and office supply stores offer rewards programs. Each of your purchases at the store receives points, and once your reach a certain level of points you are rewarded with coupons or other discounts. I find loyalty programs to be very helpful in saving money during back to school time, and throughout the year.
Summer Sales
While the other families are off enjoying their summer vacations, I like to plan ahead for the upcoming school year. You can find some great sales in the summer season for back to school supplies. As an added benefit, when you shop for school supplies before the mad rush of September, you can be almost guaranteed that the store will have exactly what you need.
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