It's that time again! Say goodbye to the lazy days of summer and hello to the school day routines of bus rides, backpacks and hitting the books.
Here are some tips to help your and your children adjust to the transition. School days can be particularly chaotic when there are mutliples in the family, so I've compiled some strategies for saving money, time and sanity too. Here's to a successful school year!
Don't Break the Bank
Shopping for school supplies and clothing is expensive enough, but it can break the bank when you're buying for two, three or more. Parents of singletons can hand down clothes and accessories from one child to the next, but multiples all need the same size at the same time. Look for bargains all summer -- don't disregard yard sales, consignment shops and even other multiple families as sources for good quality used clothing.
Sales on supplies are abundant beginning in late July. Look or "Buy one get one free" items -- for once, having doubles can pay off! Consider which homework supplies can be shared by your multiples, so you don't buy more than you need. Check dollar and discount stores for the best price on pencils, crayons and markers. Look to bulk buying stores and office supply stores for fair prices on paper and notebooks.
Browse newspaper ads for special bargains, but don't run all over town trying to save thirty cents on a pack of paper. Many stores will match sale prices if you ask respectfully and provide proof of their competitor's pricing.
Don't buy willy nilly without a plan. Many schools provide a suggested list of supplies for each class or grade. Some stores even keep the lists handy for shoppers in case you leave your list at home. If you don't know your children's specific supply needs, you'll have do a little bit of scouting. Talk to parents with children a year older than yours, and ask about their experience last year.
Finally, take advantage of Tax Free Holidays. During designated time periods, states will suspend the sales tax on certain items, such as school supplies and clothing, allowing you to save money.
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