Families are starting back-to-school shopping early this summer

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – It seems early, but many people have already started back-to-school shopping and stores are starting their back-to-school sales earlier than before.

“It’s a big challenge,” said Jared Jocelyn.

Jared and his wife, Marquisha, have two kids in elementary school and one in middle school. The family is one of millions getting ready to hit the stores for back-to-school shopping. Their main concern is getting the items their kids need for class.

“Having to buy everything all at once. Plus, the teacher’s list plus the school that they’re in has a fee on top of the school supply list,” Marquisha said.

According to the National Retail Federation’s Annual 2024 Back-to-School Survey, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $874.68 on clothing, shoes, school supplies, and electronics.

“It’s tough just trying to get everything they need,” said Tabitha Mamula.

She buys school supplies for her grandkids during the Summer. The NRF’s survey said they expect $38.8 billion to be spent on school supplies in the U.S. It’s the second-highest figure on record. Mamula says it is expensive.

“Whatever school supplies, they got to get plus shoes, clothes, jackets. You know, because every year it’s something new, you know? Probably 500 to 700 [dollars],” Mamula said.

Both Jared and Marquisha offer one simple tip for other parents.

“Save, save, save, save if you can,” Jared said.

“Yep, that’s pretty much it, save,” Marquisha said.

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