5 smart tips to save money on back-to-school shopping

Credit to Author: Canadian Immigrant| Date: Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:39:22 +0000

It’s almost September and the excitement of the back-to-school shopping season has taken center stage. Regardless of whether your  children are in first grade or high school, you can find plenty of ways to get the most out of your budget.

Below are a few simple but very useful tips from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to help you be a savvy back-to-school shopper.1. Research big-ticket items. For in-person or online learning, technology is crucial. Before getting new devices, ask the school about what technology is required for your child to best succeed. Research brands, warranties, reviews, and prices for laptops and accessories across stores to get the best deal. 2. Set a budget. You can set a realistic budget once you know where you are spending money. Set a portion for needs and a smaller portion for some wants if finances allow. Start having conversations with your child about the difference between needs and wants. Perhaps the sparkly pens aren’t a need, but rather just a want. This can garner your young ones to keep a budget top-of-mind in the future. Check out this online budget planner from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. 3. Shop your home first. Check your cupboards first before buying new supplies. You might have scissors or other items you need already at home. Turn the search into a game by finding pencils and markers hidden around the house like a scavenger hunt. Once you know what you have, have some fun by decorating pencil bags or backpacks together. You can also get in touch with your school’s Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) to coordinate supply needs. Teachers might ask for bulk items like paper towels or hand sanitizer for the class, so team up with other parents to share costs if possible.4. Ask for discounts. Many stores offer discounts for students who have a student ID or an student email address. Others may have a discount for signing up for marketing emails. Do your own research to find online coupons, as they may be affiliated with the retailer you choose. It never hurts to ask, even if you don’t see a deal advertised at the store. Price-matching may still be honoured, depending on the store.5. Find the right tutor for your child if you need one. Seek recommendations from friends, family, and teachers. Reach out to multiple tutors for quotes and discuss their availability, rates, and policies, including cancellation fees, make-up sessions, and potential outcomes for your child’s progress. Inquire about any additional fees, such as materials or assessments.

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