by Jamee Larson

The Olympics are over and another summer is all but behind us, which can only mean one thing: back- to-school shopping. For some, these trips to area stores are filled with excitement and anticipation. Others dread them each year, waiting until the last possible moment to venture into enemy territory. As consumer prices continue to rise, the thought of back-to-school shopping will undoubtedly become even more daunting. With a little help, however, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Nationwide, parents anticipate spending an average $689 for school supplies and related expenses according to the National Retail Federation. This is an increase of nearly $85 from last year’s average. Gone are the days when a couple of notebooks and a pencil or two will suffice when it comes to arming a child for the first day of school. Today, each school requires a specific set of supplies for each grade, with some lists containing over twenty different items. Required items can include anything from familiar items like crayons, scissors, and glue to more technical items like flash drives, calculators, and earphones. Students may also be required to purchase subject specific items such as uniforms and tennis shoes for physical education or painting shirts for art classes. The possibilities are endless.

So what can you do?

The first place to start is the school’s website, which typically has links to supply lists, registration costs, lunch fees, and any other costs that may pop up throughout the year. A quick phone call to the administration office will help answer any additional questions. Once you have the supply list, the real fun begins. School shopping does not need to be a stressful experience. It can be used to connect with your child before the hustle and bustle of the school year begins. Make a day of it; throw in a movie or restaurant. With the right planning and attitude, back-to-school shopping can be a time that the entire family looks forward to each year.

Back-to-school can definitely put a financial strain on a family. The good news is that some of that burden can be lessened with some planning and smart shopping. Most area retailers offer some sort of customer rewards program that provides certain benefits for its members. These programs usually ramp up their rewards during back-to-school promotions, so members should be encouraged to check their benefit options. This time of year is also a good time to look for an increase in coupons and sales, specifically in regards to school supplies and electronics. Retail stores typically have local school supply lists on hand and are very willing to help customers find the supplies that they need. Do not be afraid to ask for assistance or clarification on sales or clearance items. Another great tip is to consider buying in bulk. Many stores offer great pricing on boxes of items, specifically pens and pencils. Students will go through these items quickly and whatever isn’t used now can always be saved for future years.

I’m not sure if anyone can get through a school shopping experience without dealing with the issue of peer pressure. There will always be a struggle between what kids think they “need” and what parents are willing to spend. What child wouldn’t pick the holographic Star Wars folder over the plain blue one, especially when he sees the kid in front of him with one? Who wouldn’t find it difficult to walk pass the Dora the Explorer backpacks? Children typically want what their friends have or what they see on TV; issues of practicality and financial stability do not enter into their decision-making. They may not immediately appreciate that you can buy three regular blue folders for the same price as the holographic Star Wars folder, but your budget will appreciate it. By the end of the first week of school, however, the folder will no longer be an issue. Don’t let your child pressure you into derailing your budget. Make a plan and stick to it. Use your shopping experience as an opportunity to teach your child about budgeting. Allow him/her to help plan the budget and make decisions within your financial framework. Empowering your child will make the entire experience more meaningful (and less painful).

Back-to-school is a time of both excitement and anxiety. Students are excited about the possibilities that await them, but anxious about the unknowns at the same time. With a little planning and preparation, back-to-school shopping can be an experience that adds to that excitement – for both child and parent.