Back-to-school season is just around the corner, and it's time to start thinking about stocking up on school supplies. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also ensure that your kids have everything they need throughout the school year.
Make a List of Supplies You Always Need
Depending on the age of your children, there are certain essential school supplies that are always needed. These include pencils, pens, crayons, glue sticks, and notebooks.
Throughout the school year, you'll find yourself needing to restock these multiple times. It is common for teachers to request that you send in things like pencils and glue sticks every quarter. To save money, it's wise to take advantage of sales and purchase a sufficient stock of these supplies.
As the year progresses, the prices of these items tend to increase. For instance, the inexpensive $.50 on-sale crayons can jump up to $3-$4 in the middle of the year. Therefore, it's advisable to stock up on these essentials while they are still available at lower prices.
Plan ahead for the best deals
Being proactive is key when it comes to securing the best deals on school supplies. As the saying goes, "the early bird catches the worm," and this couldn't be more accurate in the realm of back-to-school shopping. Don't wait until the last minute and find yourself frantically searching for those coveted discounted crayons.
Oftentimes teachers post their supply lists during the summer which helps you take advantage of the sales. If you wait for the first day of school to buy supplies, chances are pretty good that you will find several items out-of-stock.
I remember the item I had issues with finding every year was the Plastic Two Pocket Folders with Prongs in a specific color the teacher required.
3 Ring Binders
Once your children reach middle school or high school, 3 ring binders are a common requirement. If you purchase the cheap ones, you are going to be replacing them several times during the year.
Consider investing in a higher quality binder from the start. I always opted to purchase extra binders while they were cheaper, knowing I was always going to need them at some point with 3 kids.
Organize School Supplies
Once you've amassed your stockpile of school supplies, it's time to get organized. Designate a specific area in your home to store all these essentials.
A spare drawer works wonders, providing easy access and visibility. If you're feeling ambitious, add some drawer dividers to keep similar items together.
Storing all the school supplies in one location will prevent you from rebuying school supplies you already have. No one wants to purchase $100 of supplies only to find out you had plenty at home already.
Stocking up on school supplies doesn't have to be a daunting task.
By planning ahead and taking advantage of sales, you can save money and ensure your children are well-equipped for the school year. May your pencils stay sharp, your glue sticks remain abundant, and your backpacks stay free from forgotten assignments. Happy shopping!
Paul Novak says
We literally have a giant plastic tub that we load with everything from packs of paper to binders and pencils. And every year we end up with a few crayons in the bottom and nothing else. Goes to show how easily they go through supplies when you think you’ve got it covered.
Melinda says
i learned the hard way when the kids were in elementary school that teachers want you to send in all new supplies once a quarter. Suddenly everything is at least twice as expensive. I used to keep it all in a tub, too. Luckily I cleared out a drawer because it is easier to find things. It is just crazy how many supplies they go through in a year.
Tom Baker says
I don’t have this problem because I have no children but this year my wife and I did buy school supplies for all the neighborhood parents. They were shocked. If I had seen your post earlier, I would have stocked up and done the same thing next year. Thanks.
Melinda says
How sweet! I’m sure you were a hero for that. It can really break the budget. I didn’t notice the cost so much with my first child…but wow multiply it times three kids now and the savings can really add up.
Evelyn says
Hi Melinda,
Thanks for sharing! Even though my daughter isn’t in school yet, these are great pointers. I won’t forget them! 🙂
Take care,
Evelyn
Lenox says
Great article post really. Its really best way to supply cheap quality enrich products to schools.
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