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July 30, 2025

Read about our staffGreetings!

It sneaks up every year. One minute you're enjoying lemonade in the backyard, and the next you're staring at a school supply list longer than a CVS receipt.

Back-to-school shopping can get expensive fast. Between notebooks, clothing, tech, and shoes, families spend hundreds. But there are ways to cut that total way down — and even make it a little fun.

Here are my best tips to stretch your dollars and still send the kids off fully stocked and ready to learn.

Make sure you see our Freebie today, some awesome earbuds!

Be Well,
Anisa

Please add [*FROM*] to your address book or visit here.

1. Shop at Home First

Dig through closets, junk drawers, and last year's backpacks. You might already have pens, pencils, folders, or even unworn clothes. Take inventory before buying anything new.

2. Hit Thrift Stores and Clearance Racks

Check secondhand shops for gently used clothing, shoes, and even backpacks. And don't skip end-of-season clearance racks — a lightweight hoodie for $3 still keeps them warm in September.

3. Use Store Apps for Instant Coupons

Target, Walmart, and even Dollar General have apps that often offer exclusive discounts or price match tools. A few taps can save you real money at checkout.

4. Wait on the Fancy Supplies

NoneThat $6 glitter pencil pouch? It might be marked down to $1 after the first week of school. Focus on essentials now, then grab extras later when stores start clearing inventory.

5. Host a Supply Swap

Team up with neighbors, friends, or fellow parents. What your child outgrew, someone else might need. Swaps are great for clothing, art supplies, and even books.

6. Set a Budget Together

If your child is old enough, give them a set dollar amount and let them help make decisions. It turns shopping into a learning moment and helps curb impulse buys.

In Closing...

Back-to-school shopping does not have to bust your budget. With a little planning, a few smart stops, and some creative swapping, you can get everything they need without overspending. It's not about spending less just to be frugal — it's about spending smart so your dollars go further.

Swap Station: Smart Ideas from Other Parents
Let me ask you! What's your best back-to-school savings trick?

Reply back with your ideas, they may be featured in an upcoming edition!

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