It’s Christmas in July?
Yes, you got that right!
It’s Back to School shopping time. This month… July.
But, summer vacation just began! I know, right?
If you look around at the stores these days, the retailers are clearing out the summer patio section, and they are gearing up for another new school year…which begins in a few short weeks!
Backpacks, Lunchboxes, and Pencils… Oh My!
Once again in the near future, there will be a myriad of choices of school supplies to buy. It’s more than enough to break any parent’s bank account or budget. Whether you are anxiously awaiting the new school year to begin, or you are preparing to teach your own children at home, the idea of school supply shopping should not cause a parent’s head to spin. Take a deep breath!
Here are some ideas to consider before you head out the door (and into the nearest big box store):
1) Contact your local school (or district office) to see if they have a recommended school supply list for your child’s upcoming grade level. Some stores (i.e. Walmart) will have pre-printed lists near the front of the store that will show the needs at local schools and grades.
2) If you are home-schooling your children this year, make sure you attend the upcoming 2014 Homeschool Convention at the Phoenix Convention Center on July 11-12. You can find out more information at the sponsor’s website: www.afhe.org. This place is amazing for buying everything you will need for the upcoming year. If you are new to homeschooling, or have been considering the possibility of homeschooling, please click here (or the picture below) to help you navigate to the free pre-conference on July 10.
3) Know your budget limit before you shop. Since I have four children, it can get quite expensive to purchase supplies on a separate basis. If I know ahead of time how much of each item to buy, I can get certain items in bulk quantity and split it up between the children. Thus, I have to plan accordingly to their needs, but I am also keeping my sanity (and wallet) in check!
When in Doubt… Ask!
As a seasoned mother, home educator, and now a public school teacher, I would love to answer any questions you may have regarding the upcoming school year. I go to the Homeschool Convention every year, even if I am not homeschooling. It is an educator’s paradise, with more curriculum and supplies than one could ever hope for that is not under any other roof!
Please feel free to leave a comment or question, and I will do my best to answer your questions. If I don’t have the answer, I am sure I can find someone who does know the answer!
Happy School Supply Shopping, and enjoy the rest of your summer vacation!
Homeschooling is great especially here in Arizona and you are a great teacher!
I want to take my kids back to school shopping so they can get the supplies and clothes that they need. It is good to know your suggestion to set a budget limit before you shop so you can save money. I will keep this in mind as I take my kids shopping at a reliable mall so we can cut back unnecessary costs.
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