The Frugal Files: Substitute to Save: School Supplies

Welcome back all!! This month’s Frugal Files will include tips and tricks to substitute your way to saving. I know at restaurants the chefs prefer to prepare the dishes just how it's described on the menu, but we are all different, so we have different tastes. We make substitutions in every other part of our lives, so why not when it comes to our wallets? This month's series will give you ideas to save in other ways besides the traditional ones we see. We'll always find another way to save, so join with me in saying, "Substitutions please!!"

Many people feel they have to pay full price or even make unnecessary purchases in order to have certain things, but the truth is we can always find a deal or improvise with a clever substitution.

What is August typically known for? That’s right folks, it’s Back to School time!! That means it’s time to get those kiddies looking prim, proper and ready to get back to the learning environment. Do you need to get them a trim? Not to diminish the work of your current barber, but be sure to check out JCPenney because they are giving FREE haircuts for the kiddies. Do a search to see if there’s a JCP salon in your area. As long as they are in grades K-6, then they are eligible. Get your appointment booked today!!

This time last year, I challenged you to Hunt for School Supplies at home. Finding what you or your child needs right in your own home is the ultimate substitution. It keeps down the clutter, while you recycle and save money by using what was leftover from last year. No need to head out and try to beat the greedy shoppers who pile their buggies high, just because the supplies are "cheap" (or free) or pay high prices for items you already have (probably in duplicate I might add).

Another tip to save on book covers. It's an oldie, but goodie. Use the paper grocery bags instead. Cut them accordingly, wrap your books and allow your children to do their own artwork on it. Some people use the comics newpapers, but it's so flimsy, you'll be covering the child's book again next week.

If I could add anything to the Scavenger Hunt blog now, I would definitely include new found knowledge of the power of couponing. There are some phenomenal deals out there for glue, crayons, paper and even hand sanitizer. Check out the sales and deals at some of your favorite shopping places and find some corresponding coupons. Check out the websites for coupons too and get your additional savings:

Target - Coupons are available on the site.

Walmart

Walgreens

CVS

You are sure to walk away with free or very cheap items, a great way to start off the school year stress free.

Looking for clothes, then look for uniforms at a thrift shop. If it's a pretty basic dress code, then grab them some khakis and polos and be on your way. No need to buy expensive clothing; just make sure they are clean and comfortable. If you must shop retail, take advantage of sales and discounts. If a store is closing, that's even better. I got word recently that Payless' parent company Stride Rite is closing several of their stores. Although that's unfortunate for their business, it might mean a great deal on school shoes for the kids. Check it out and see what you can find.

That's all the tips I have for you today, but stay tuned this month for subbing to save for college students and in your kitchen!! Until next time, let's save!!

Frugalicious Diva
Follow me on Twitter at @FrugaliciousDva

Hunting for School Supplies...at Home

If you grew up like me, then school supply time was a ritual in your household too. It was always a big deal to get new school supplies and school clothes. Actually, I always wore a uniform, but that didn’t mean I couldn’t get a new plaid skirt or khaki shorts. My joy was really in getting new school shoes and accessories for my hair.

As another frugal note, school uniforms are a lifesaver for the pocket, as well as equalizers at school. Even if your child’s school doesn’t require uniforms, you could enforce a dress code for them. My old boss used to share stories about morning conversations between her and her three children. They all attended public school and though there was no dress code, she required them to wear dark pants or shorts and a polo top in white, yellow or blue. If they had a good week, she would occasionally let them wear their other clothes on Fridays.

In my opinion, she had the right idea because when you have children in elementary, junior or senior high schools, keeping them in clothes that fit them (and their personalities) can be sometimes be expensive. But, I digress…

I really wanted to challenge you in another area today: the beloved school supplies. If you can get your children’s supplies at one of the several back to school drives held in your area, by all means, take advantage of that opportunity!! In many areas, there are churches, community groups and even some businesses that make it their business to ensure children receive book bags, school uniforms and school supplies to begin a new year.

If you are not this lucky or you do not want to attend the school fairs, then simply set aside a day to complete this challenge. I will bet that you really tried, you could find most school supplies right in your own home. Try a school supply scavenger hunt at home or at the homes of your family and friends, if they are okay with it.

How many times have you opened a drawer to find 20 or more pens and pencils? If they still have ink in them, put them in your child’s book bag. They don’t all have to match; they just have to be black or blue. Does little Joey NEED a new book bag or can you just wash the $20 one you bought for him last year? My own daughter, who is a recent high school graduate, STILL has book bags in pretty good condition. Last summer she volunteered as a camp counselor and at the end of the summer, she donated uniforms, folders and book bags to some of the kids in her camp. It’s a great way to recycle.

Do you have a cosmetic bag you never use? Go find it because it will double as a pencil case. Look through your child’s folders from last year, there is probably notebook paper in them. Then think about those notebooks…If your household is anything like mine, then I KNOW you have plenty of slightly used notebooks in every nook. Check your basement, in your seasonal items box and under your children’s bed. Once you rip out the used pages, they are ready for class this year.

Unless you need a specialized calculator for a particular class, a basic Texas Instruments calc will work for a student for several years to come. Go find it. In fact, take a look at your school supply list and take a walk with your children around your home and look for all those items. Whatever you don’t cross off, see if you can find those items on sale or ask a friend or family to use theirs. You can even ask strangers. If you are a member of your local FREECYCLE, then ask them for the items you’re missing. The greatest thing about this hunt, everything is FREE!!

In fact, get your family and friends involved in a school supply swap. Bring all your items together at someone’s home and everyone give and take what they need in order to fill up their book bags. This is a great way to show unity in your community, save money and use your resources. They may like the look of new items every year, but you know it is not a requirement. Many parents spend up to and even exceed $100 for school supplies alone. Try the hunt this year and find a better place to invest the money you save.

Here’s to a frugaliciously successful school year!!

Frugalicious Diva