Consumer Services

Back-to-School Shopping
Tricks of the Trade

With summer winding down and children preparing to head back to school, parents should start planning their back-to-school shopping budget for clothes and supplies. Though this annual tradition can often be financially strenuous even during good economic times, this year poses a special challenge. Due to the recession, many families are finding it more difficult to pay the bills while school budgets have been critically slashed. With schools cutting costs, many parents may be required to take on additional expenses when they can least afford it.

Before you hit the stores, check out these tips so that your child is well-equipped to hit the books without breaking your bank. Compiled by the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department

Consumer Smarts

• Take inventory. Find out what your child already has in clothes and school supplies. The school year ended not too long ago -- in June. Chances are they have leftover supplies that can be reused, such as backpacks, lunchboxes, paper and pencils. Just because it's a new year doesn't mean you have to discard perfectly useful items.

• Make a list and get your child involved. Use the recommended or required supplies from your child's school or teacher as a starting point. Not only does a list help you refrain from buying things you don't need or can't afford, but it will also help your child set priorities so that there are no disagreements about purchases at the store.

• Start early and look for bargains. Keeping your supply list in an easily accessible place like your car, purse or your PDA will help you shop for supplies as you do your other errands. Spreading your purchases over time will make it easier to pay the bills and should make shopping easier than a full-blown shopping trip with all the kids loading the shopping cart faster than you can tally the total. Many stores offer back-to-school promotions. Some offer free shipping on online orders. Local health departments in some areas offer free basic school supplies to parents who bring their children in for immunizations.

• Buy basics in bulk. Dollar stores, warehouse stores and even the Internet are sources for buying basics, including paper, pens, pencils and folders in bulk. You and a group of other parents might be able to split the cost or even negotiate a group discount from an office supply store.

• Shop quality. It might cost a bit more up front to buy a quality backpack, shoes, lunchbox or binder, but these items will last much longer if you do. When buying folders, pencils and paper, choose plastic folders, refillable pencils and a small binder that holds loose-leaf paper. These items are durable and can be reused the following year.

• Organize. Help your child manage his supplies by giving him only what he needs and storing the rest at home. Set up a storage container at home near the place where your child will do homework. This will teach your child organizational skills, and he will have what he needs nearby.

For more consumer tips, or to check the complaint history of a company, file a complaint or ask consumer-related questions, visit the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department website at www.miamidade.gov/csd or call (305) 375-3677.

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