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Trying to save a few dollars on your back to school shopping? Everyone could use a little help during these tough economic times with saving a few dollars on their back to school shopping. Here are a few tips on how to start saving now.

All kids need the essentials such as paper, pens, pencils, crayons etc. Get them cheaper at your local dollar store.

Also watch for money saving coupons to such retail giants as Office Max and Staples, and Wal-Mart, Each week in August they start offering low cost items for your child's back to school needs as well as the occasional freebie.

Trying to get everything ahead of time can be less stressful if you consider using layaway as an option as well. Getting all your child's school supplies and new clothes lined up for the first day of school using layaway is easy. Simply get all the items you need, place them on layaway and pay it off a little each week instead of all at once and by the time they start school you will have everything you need.

Watch your local newspaper for flyers and sales events to your local retailers as well. Some offer one day specials on certain items such as backpacks at off, clothing specials, and buy one get one free events.

Instead of buying book covers this year try making your own using the good old paper bag, or wrapping paper. This will help save unnecessary money on book covers and book socks. Also, see what can be recycled from last year by going through last years items. I bet your child has some items they can still use. Looking through my own son's items, he has many pencils that are brand new he never used. Why buy the items if you already have them?

Before school starts, most schools do put out a list of what your child will be needing. You don't need to purchase everything on the list to get them started. The basics are good enough. The other items that are needed will be used sometime later in the school year and not one the first day, unless the teacher has otherwise specified. So what if you don't have them all at once? You don't need to spend a fortune getting your child ready to go on the first day. A little planning ahead will have your child ready to go in no time and save you a little money in the long run.

Learn more about this author, Christine Little.
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