Back to School Shopping Tips

School is right around the corner. Are you ready?

Back to school is the 2nd biggest shopping season of the year in the United States. Preparing now will help you save hundreds of dollars. Here are some of my quick tips. Begin shopping at home. You may have supplies from prior years that can add up to big savings. Next, inventory your student’s wardrobe. Shop thrift stores and gratefully accept hand-me-downs from others. Research the best prices for expensive items like backpacks, sporting equipment, and technology. If you don’t need it right away, wait for sales later in the year. They might be good Christmas or birthday gifts.

Don’t shop with your children unless they’re old enough to make it a learning experience. Then by all means, use this time to teach them about managing money. Give them an age appropriate budget and coach them for the shopping season. Don’t be afraid to say “No”. New clothes and school supplies provide temporary satisfaction. Children need to learn that their identity is not in their possessions. Things do not bring lasting happiness. Learn Psalm 107:9 together, “He satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” Training your children in this truth will protect them from the bondage of materialism. This foundation will arm them when faced with peer pressure and the lure of worldly stuff. The secret to saving is to only buy what you need. Or as my brother-in-law says, “If you don’t need it today, wait until tomorrow. Chances are, you may not need it then either!” 

And if you’ve been blessed with My MoneyLife, I invite you to discover the Crown Stewardship Podcasts. They focus on helping you find freedom in your finances and career. You can subscribe on Spotify and iTunes, or listen at Crown.org.