by Noelle Carter

Created on: July 27, 2010   Last Updated: July 28, 2010

Every year when September rolls around, kids groan and their parents grin. Soon children will be back in school, occupied and productive.  But unfortunately for parents, before they can reach that happy place, they must go through the much more unpleasant ordeal of back-to-school shopping.

Not only is back-to-school shopping fraught with stressful parent-child disagreements, but it’s also just plain expensive. In this current economy, many families are already feeling strapped and budget shopping has become more important than ever.  So what is a parent to do? Take a deep breath, then try some of these suggestions for bargain school supplies.

 Wal-Mart and Target

Both of these stores offer a wide selection of supplies, shoes, and clothing at low everyday prices.  During August the prices drop even lower.  A 16 pack of Crayola crayons can often be found for just $0.25, and four glues sticks are only $1. Check the flyers before you go and only purchase items that are on sale or on your list.  If you can go without your children you’ll avoid all those “have-to-have” licensed extras like Scooby Doo pencil boxes and Disney Princess crayons.  

Dollar Stores

You won’t believe what you can find at these bargain stores.  Snack foods, juice boxes, lunch boxes, and notebooks are some of the items on sale now.  These often retail for much, much more at your local drug store.  Also try the dollar aisle at Target.

 Thrift Stores

Backpacks and lunch boxes can often be found at local Salvation Army or Goodwill stores. Get lucky and you might also find an extra jacket to replace the one your eight-year old will surely leave on the bus!

 Flea Markets

Summer is the perfect time to hit flea markets and flea markets are filled with hidden back-to-school treasures. Look for vendors selling calculators, pencils, notebooks, and pencil sharpeners. School shopping here can be particularly fun for kids, because they'll be able to pick out many things they like for just a couple of dollars.

Your Own Home

It’s time for a house cleaning marathon! Have your kids clean out their rooms and desks while you clean out the junk drawer.  Scissors, markers, pens, rulers, and pencils don’t change much from year to year.  Use what you already have!  You kids probably don’t need as many new items as you think.

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