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The start of school is still a few weeks away for most kids still loving summer break but already the aisles at kids busthe store have begun to fill up with tons of backpacks, notebooks, and other supplies. While all that shiny new stuff can be so tempting, when times are tight as they are for so many families these days, it is much smarter to wait and catch a bargain then it is to jump on the bandwagon of cool – despite what your kids believe.

Here are 5 ways to save on the new school year:

Backpacks

The trick is to wait until after the school year has started. Typically, September is the first time you will find some deep discounts on backpacks and other school gear. By September, stores are already thinking about Christmas so they want to get rid of as much as possible. If you want the optimum deal for a book bag, check out the tags on the bag for companies that offer lifetime warranties. There are several companies that will replace a bag that has been ripped or gets a busted zipper for no cost to you but postage. If you happen to find a really great clearance deal, buy more than one bag at a time to keep on hand for later in the year as many kids tend to be rough on backpacks and book bags.

Lunch Boxes

If you plan to save more money by having kids bring lunch from home rather than buy it, grab a lunch bag or box also in September when they go on clearance. You can also look for plain lunch bags at the dollar store. While most kids want a character-themed item, you can purchase a pack of stickers and have the kids decorate their own lunch bag with their favorite character. There are also appliqués that can easily be hot-glued onto the lunch bag or box.

Supply List

While stores like Walmart offer the convenience of school supply lists as well as the necessary supplies, the same stuff will most likely be available at the local dollar store at considerably less cost. Just like with the lunch bag, stickers can spruce up a plain pencil box in no time at all. You will also get a better deal on notebooks, paper, and other school supplies than most other stores without having to wait for the sales.

Book Fees

If your school requires you to pay for books and other fees, you may want to consider asking for help. Many local and county programs can offer advise or assistance for paying these fees. With the economy the way it is, families who think they will not qualify may be surprised to learn that they can actually get help covering the essential fees involved with some schools.

Lunch

Some children may qualify for a reduced or free lunch program through their school. Parents who face financial difficulties should speak with the school district and obtain the qualifications necessary for participating in the programs to ensure their children get healthy meals each day. Many families are involved in the reduced lunch program and there is certainly no shame in making sure your child is fed.

  



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