Is it overwhelming for you when the kids go back to school? Finally, I have a list of everything I need to get their supplies ready. This is so easy. You can SO do this!
Read more of the series of tips to get ready for back to school.
My kids are 13 and six. They will be going to 8th and 1st grades. My son is in pre-AP classes, so he had a summer reading project. Other than that, he has been able to have a pretty relaxing summer. My daughter is so excited to see her friends again and to start shopping for her supplies. I’ve checked both schools’ websites and both of their supply lists are available. I love that they’re available now because we can get started on our shopping and get it done early!
One of the most important tasks families will complete before school starts, is gathering all of the necessary school supplies. Done haphazardly, it can be tiring and expensive. However, with a little planning and preparation, it can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively.
1. Review the supplies required based on the child’s grade.
Each year, the schools publish lists of items required in each grade. I would imagine that the bulk of the supplies required in a particular grade remain the same year-to-year.
2. Assess the supplies you already have.
Some of the same items like notebook paper, pencils, crayons, and personal hygiene items can be required from grade to grade. Take some time to review what you have left over from last year. We typically keep any supplies sent home at the end of the school year for our homework supplies. Then, we send new items to school.
3. Make a list of what is needed
After marking off items you already have from the list, you will have a true picture of what you really need to buy.
Flickr photo credit: meddygarnet
4. Start shopping early in the season
Sales often begin in early summer. If you wait until the weekend before school starts, prices may be inflated and the options may be skinny.
5. Price shop among multiple sources
Keep track of this season’s prices or compare prices from last year. This will give you a good idea of price points for this year’s needs. Pricing will vary widely between Walmart, Target, Office Max, Staples, and other national chains.
6. Stockpile for next school year
While shopping, if you see rock bottom prices on basic items, like notebook paper, pencils, crayons, and personal hygiene items, pick them up. You can also review the list of required items for the next grade your child will be advancing to. Again, I would imagine that the bulk of the supplies required in a particular grade remain the same year-to-year.
7. Donate free or cheap supplies
In addition to getting a head start on next school year’s supplies, keep in mind that schools and shelters often collect supplies for less fortunate children. This is a great way to help out without breaking your budget.
With a little planning and preparation, back to school supply shopping can be easy.
More Tips to Get You Ready for the Back to School Season:
- 20 Must Do’s Before School Starts
- Clothing Children Inexpensively
- Make meals easier during the school year
- Preparing for a New School
- Back to School Books for Moms
How do you make supply shopping easier?
Good info to prepare with!! Thanks for sharing at this week’s Living With Style Linky Party! Be sure to come back next week 🙂 ~Dianne
Back to school is coming again! Hi there, A bunch of thanks for sharing such valuable information & experience with us.
I agree that you need to look at what you already have before buying more. Thank you for linking up on the #HomeMattersParty. Come back and share again next week.
Great info! Stockpiling is usually my go-to solution. With several kids, we have to buy more school supplies. Sometimes buying 4-packs help! Keep up the great work!
I recently wrote an article on finding the best Chromebook at different price points. https://www.netpayadvance.com/heading_back_to_school_on_a_budget Thought it might help others in their quest for school supplies.