Beat "Back-to- School" Costs

The start of every school year always brings both anticipation and apprehension to those going back to classes and for the parents with these children who are going back to school, it is a budget buster. The kids have no idea that the economy is tight and they want to be dressed and equipped with everything that their classmates have.

Well, the start of school doesn't have to put you into debt, if you follow a few basic tips when purchasing all the items necessary. To save money on this shopping expedition, let's look at the top "wants" on the list and where they can be bought at a bargain.

• 1. School notebooks for every class -- start watching the ads for the best sales in all the department stores, Walmart, KMART, and Target at least one month before school starts.
• 2. Check and see in your area when the tax-free week occurs. This week will save your family the taxes on all back-to-school items, including clothes, during that week.
• 3. Shop the Thrift stores and yard sales for clothes, shoes and back packs - just don't let your children see you go. Bring home the clothes in retail store bags so they won't know. Kids out grow their sizes so fast, you shouldn't pay full price for them. Buy nice looking clothes at budget prices.

By using just these few tips, you can dress your children and equip them with supplies for half the price, maybe even less! It is possible to cut the costs that your family spends, so you will have more for the other groups things that they will want. Be creative and choose wisely, and both you and your children will survive the first day of school!