Helpful advice ahead of back-to-school shopping

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – The school year is quickly approaching along with back-to-school shopping. Some families may be in a pinch, but finding the best deals, using smart spending habits, and getting a little community support could take away some of the stress.

For parents like AnnaMarie Horn back to school shopping can be expensive.

“Every school year is new. The new shoes, the new uniform, the new clothes, the new hoodie, the new backpack all of that good stuff,” said Horn.

A survey from the National Retail Federation estimates families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $875 per child on school supplies, clothes, and electronics. The mother of 5 says she doesn’t expect to spend quite that much… But knows it’s going to leave a dent in her wallet.

“It’s easy to spend 3-400 dollars just on basic necessities,” said Horn.

Tom Clement of the Michigan Retailers Association says as parents begin shopping for the new school year, they should plan ahead to find the best deals.

“What might be the best store for your pens and your pencils, and your notebooks might not be your best option when it comes to electronics and computers or iPads,” said Clement.

In addition to spreading out purchases over stores, look to spread out payments over time to stay within budget

“Especially if you have multiple children that you’re trying to buy back-to-school materials for. So, if we can do that over the course of 6 or 8 weeks as opposed to one big spend, I think that makes a lot of sense for consumers,” said Clement.

Backpack giveaways like the one hosted by Lansing’s Power 96.5 have been a saving grace for parents like Horn. Show Host and Promotion Director Genesis Terrell says the station plans to give away 1200 backpacks to families in Lansing.

“There are some homes with 1 kid and then they have 5. So, if you got 5, you got a lot of money you’re going to have to spend. In addition to backpacks, we give away the essential items from K through 12th so the basic needs to get your school year started we cover those,” said Terrell.

“It’s a blessing to be able to know that there is support and help that way to offset you know some of the other costs that we know we’re going to have to come out of our pocket for,” said Horn. In hopes of making sure kids are prepared for the new school year.

Clement suggests taking an inventory of items from the previous school year before heading out to the stores. Also, check your student’s school website to see exactly which supplies are ‘must haves’ ahead of the first day of school.

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