Kids are almost back to school and some may already be back and parents are looking to save some money . I’ve enlisted the help of a teacher (my wife) to get the inside scoop on how parents can save. Here’s what she came up with:

1. Say no to binders:  Don’t get your child those big binders since duotangs are often provided. As well teachers prefer to keep the subjects separate rather then have everything in one.
2. Label clothes: Label your child’s shoes, hats, mits, and jackets as they tend to get mixed up and lost. They’ll eventually end up in a lost and found bin and it will make it much easier for you to identify the items.
3. Seasonal discount clothing: Buy their new back to school clothing at the end of September.The weather will be warm enough for them to use their summer clothes while you wait for the fall/winter clothing to go on sale.
4. Meal programs: Look into utilizing school breakfast and lunch programs as they can provide healthy meals in a cost effective manner.
5. After school sports: Speak to teachers and administrators about what athletic activities are being offered or what you would like your children to take part in. You can get the school to start up activities if there is enough interest.
6. Reusable water bottles:  Purchase a reusable water bottle instead of a disposable ones as the disposable ones tend to sit there all day and get thrown out at the end of the day by the teacher.
7. Homework clubs: Look into after school home work clubs to help avoid expensive tutoring costs.
8. Fund Raisers: Keep an eye on school fund raisers as you can purchase items and even Christmas gifts while supporting your child’s school. A prime example are magazine subscriptions offered by QSP which has something for everyone. P.S. if your child’s school doesn’t have a fundraiser then look into starting one!
9. The school library: Rather then purchasing books have your child look at the school library. If they don’t have a novel that your child is interested then discuss it with the librarian as they are responsible with keeping the library stocked with the latest age appropriate books.

What school saving tips do you have? Any teachers out there have some money saving tips for parents ?

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