Back-to-school season is a budget buster for most families, but it doesn’t have to be. School supplies alone average over $100 per child. When you add in the cost of clothing, shoes, and technology parents are spending nearly $900 per child before the school year even begins. Families also need to factor in the price of school lunches, extracurricular activity fees, afterschool programs, and afterschool care. 

Parents can offset back-to-school expenses each year by following these tips.

1.   Open a dedicated savings account for back-to-school expenses and contribute a little each pay period so the balance grows quickly.

2.   Create an inventory of existing school supplies then use any leftover notebooks, pens, and backpacks the following year. 

3.   Go through closets and dresser drawers to create new outfits before shopping for additional apparel. 

4.   Consign gently used clothes and shoes and use the money you earn to shop for new items.

5.   Compare prices and shop the sales to cut costs.

6.   Search for local organizations known for their school supply fundraisers and request support. 

7.   Hold a neighborhood bake sale to raise money for your child’s extracurricular activities.

With planning and creativity, back-to-school season won’t be a budget buster. Instead, it can become a manageable part of your family’s yearly routine.