It is the best of times, it is the worst of times. Back to school. Getting the kids back to school is great for so many reasons (my Netflix account is lit up with cartoons right now) but it also poses challenges in initiating early bedtimes, making extra time for back to school socials, and the ominous BTS supply shopping. 

Online sources report that families can spend on average of $670 on school supplies, per child, every year. That is a large number, fellow mamas. I’m happy to support my child’s education in this way as in investment to their future, but to be honest, it is always a hit on our budget. 

We survive by making compromises and keeping priorities in mind during this season. So here is my list of what to spend the big bucks on and how we can save for back to school.

Backpacks: Splurge

I will not compromise on having a solid backpack. It supports their backs better and just holds up longer. This piece of equipment needs to be durable through a lot of abuse and use. I love Pottery Barn’s backpacks, and I hear LL Bean is just as great, but with a lifetime guarantee. Opt for name embroidery or get a tag with your child’s first name and teacher’s name in case it is left on the bus.

Clothing: Save

Fall time is not the time to buy school clothes. It is still so nice outside that summer clothes can last through the first month of the school and then wait for sales or consignments. I splurge on a special first day item like a hair bow with my daughters name embroidered on it, or a cool accessory for my son. When buying school uniforms, find used when you can or use coupons from LL Bean for the pants with reinforced knees (a must).

Shoes: Splurge

Quality shoes last longer, fit better, are more supportive for their bodies, and will be used almost every day. It makes sense to buy shoes that will last though the tough every day use. If they are growing fast, it’s even more important to buy shoes that support that type of physical foundational development.

Lunches: Save

Buying school lunches will add up in a big way in a school-years time, especially if you have more than one child attending school. When you use leftovers for some of those meals it can be very resourceful and most likely food that your child already likes. Making lunches at home is a little more work, but once a routine is established, it will be easy and nice for the budget. 

Supplies: Splurge

Back to school supplies can be costly, but not because the brand name products are much more expensive than the generic brand. Teachers have expressed that brand name is better and lasts longer. If you are able to, make this splurge for the community of students that will benefit for the small price difference.

Sports: Save

Sports and extra curricular activities can be expensive when stacked. Limiting these to one sport per season can drastically reduce that expense and save your time as well. This allows you to focus on where your child excels and develop those skills in isolation.

Technology: Depends

Technology is ever changing so getting new technology such as iPads and laptops for your student would be helpful and give an edge in many ways, although not critical. 

Can we talk about the TI-83 graphing calculator though? Why is that calculator still close to $100?  I’m pretty sure we paid the same 20 years ago, I can’t see why it hasn’t dropped in price by now. Too bad I can’t pass mine on to my child as I sold it several years ago, because you NEVER use them in real life. Never.  Unless you’re a math teacher or in some profession that is very complicated. Anyway, buy that thing used for your student. There must be a billion in circulation by now. Maybe it’s gotten more advanced since we had them, but I’m not going to play around with it to find out.

Books: Save

Whether you homeschool or have a student in college classes, try to find books used or new discounted books on Amazon, Ebay, or Rakuten.

Teacher gifts: Splurge

Remember that number of how much we spend on our children’s school supplies? A teacher spends even more for our students. They are what makes our education system thrive. Budget to get your child’s teacher a GREAT gift. We usually get our teacher a gift card to Target or honestly we have given them straight up cash. They deserve that times a million. They do not need another mug.

We are so blessed to live in a nation with a dynamic school system. The opportunities our children have are limitless. Supporting them in this way can be a little easier with mindful shopping and resourcefulness. Do you agree with this list? How do you invest for back to school supplies?

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