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5 Back-to-School Shopping Tips for Every Student!

Time to start buying school supplies - and don't forget the clothing, bags and decisions and arguments about brand name or no name products.

If you are a parent of a child going to school for the first time, or if this is your first time shopping, you could benefit from some helpful advice on where and what to buy for their children. It is not too bad if your child is at grade school as you already have some experience.

Check out these five great ideas for saving both your money and your mind while shopping.

GET AN EARLY START

Wait too long and you're sure to find the shelves empty at all your favorite discount stores. If your biggest concern is getting a good deal, shop early.

You will be able to buy your goods in August, not forgetting that the dollar stores will be good for pens, paper and other important accessories.

Head to the office supply stores or stationers if you're starting late. Although they may not have the best prices, they'll probably have what you're looking for. Buying everything in one place can save you a lot of time.

GET OUT THAT MEMBERSHIP CARD

Buying in bulk at membership stores will save you money if you have friends who are also shopping for their kids.

You may not be able to get everything you need but essentials like paper, pens and the like can be loaded up and split among everyone saving you money.

BUY THROUGH THE SCHOOL

Your school may be able to buy supplies in bulk and share the expense between the parents or classmates.

Great savings can be had and also removes the hassle of shopping.

END OF SEASON CLOTHING

End-of-seasons sales are on now, offering great deals on clothes for summer and sports. If you have a child active in school sports, now's the time to stock up on their gear.

Look for double-duty clothes that can be worked into fall and winter wardrobes as well. Skirts worn with thick tights, tank tops worn layered under long sleeve shirts and sweaters or cropped pants tucked into tall boots are all trends that move summer staples into trendy fall and winter wardrobes.

As a note of caution: make sure you're aware of school dress codes when making fashion choices. Some schools forbid bare shoulders or skirts shorter than a required length.

THE RIGHT BAG IS KEY

Remember that injuries can easily occur when your kids are carrying their school bag. Make that it is not carried below waist level and that you buy one with should strap padding. A good idea is to buy one that also has a waist strap which will give extra support.

Discomfort can be caused by carrying heavy books in hobo bags or slouchy purses. If your kids must use a bag or sac then make sure it is one with a strap that crosses the body to distribute the weight. Ideally heavy books should be carried in a properly work backpack.

Have fun with back-to-school shopping and don't get to stressed. Look forward to the excitement and possibilities ahead of you in the new school year.

Donna Brancheau has been teaching & tutoring in the San Diego area for 30 years. For powerful tutoring advice, visit her tutoring web site, Horizon Bound. Also, be sure to get unique copies of this article or other insightful education articles to use on your web site!