Breezing into Back to School Mode

Back to school time is expensive- especially for large families.  So how can you be frugal but keep teens and tweens happy?  For us, it starts with keeping that expense in mind when making summer plans.  Saving up for all the supplies, fees, and clothes before planning that beach trip or even an extra movie/dinner out. 

The Hagerty Top Tips for Breezing into School

Be honest with your kids- we can't afford it all at once and you don't need everything

keep the need v. want talk going

make a list of needs- if they find something they want, allow them to purchase with their own money if they just have to have it.  But stick to your list- only buy what's on the need list

Start early and spread the buying out

 

Our Buying Schedule

At the end of June, we purchased the school supply lists

In mid July, we purchased clothing- NEEDS ONLY

At the end of July, we will buy shoes and socks

Mid August, we will be ready to shell out money daily for awhile for team uniforms, club dues, memberships, and lunches.

 

How do we buy affordable and fashionable clothing for 4 teens/tweens?

Before shopping we go over the needs list

We plan to shop for clearance and sale items only

Our first stop is ALWAYS at our favorite Thrift store in Buford- for as long as they can remember, we've had a rule that if you do not try on clothes at this store you may not try on clothes at the mall.  They always roll their eyes at the mention of it, but are never disappointed with their finds.  Today alone at this store we bought 3 dresses, 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of shorts, and a jean jacket for $30.

 

There's no fighting or fit pitching.  Everyone knows before we leave the house what the plan is and we have a fun day out as a family together.  Hopefully they are learning to budget, discern between wants and needs, and learning to be content with what they have. 

 

We love them enough to teach them to make wise choices.