BACK TO SCHOOL

Hi:

I love that staples commercial in which the parent is on the shopping cart and the music is playing that it's the happiest time of the year because kids are going back to school. I have to say that it was great having my kids home from school for the summer. However, it's nice to have them go back to school because I'm sure like I did they get bored over the summer. One mistake I made last year was buying too many school supplies. Since I went shopping today for my girls, I wanted to share some helpful tips when buying school supplies. Here they are:

-If you can, get a list from the school. They supply the necessary back to school items. At least they do at our elementary school. I didn't even know they had this.
-Don't overbuy. The teachers will most likely tell you the first week what your child is missing.
-If money is tight, try the dollar stores, they have a school supply aisle there too.
-Some stores have lists in the front that have recommended items for each grade. Compare it with the school list I mentioned above. I spent three times as much last year because we didn't need all of the items.
-The best thing to do is buy when necessary. If you buy thinking you'll hold on to it most likely you will lose it and have to buy another.

Enjoy the rest of the summer with your kids.