It does not seem like it is already almost time for the start of another school year. The summer just flew by whether you spent time in the Hamptons, took a Hawaiian summer vacation, or cruised the Carribean with your children on your yacht.

Some schools are starting earlier this year, depending on where you live. In some states, school is starting in late July this year instead of early August. As you prepare for your children to return to school, you want to use these back-to-school shopping tips. These tips are also perfect for nannies responsible for taking care of all the children’s back-to-school needs.

Tip #1: Conduct an Inventory

Before you begin shopping, it is worthwhile to go through what school supplies you already have. You may have purchased larger quantities last year or this summer for arts and crafts projects. You could be surprised by the number of markers, pens, pencils, and notebooks you find.

Tip #2: Check School Uniforms and Clothing

Have your children try on their school uniforms or school clothing to see if it still fits. If your child has not experienced a growth spurt over the summer, they may not need new uniforms or new clothing.

If your child has outgrown their school uniforms or school clothing, take the time to measure them to know what sizes they need. It is acceptable to buy clothes one size bigger so that they last a little longer.

Tip #3: Obtain a School Supply List from the School

Your child’s school should have a list of school supplies your child will need based on their grade. If you have older children in specialized education programs like technology, science, or computers, they may need additional items like a new tablet, software applications, laboratory supplies, etc.

Other items to verify on the school’s list are school uniform or dress code requirements, backpack requirements, special clothing needed for physical education, sports equipment, musical instruments, and other such items for extracurricular activities.

Tip #4: Compare Your Inventory to the School’s List

Once you have the list from the school, go down your inventory and mark off items you already have. Any remaining items left, transfer to your back-to-school supply list. Review your finalized list a second time to verify you did not miss or forget anything.

Tip #5: Avoid Crowds by Shopping Online

If you want to avoid back-to-school shopping crowds, you can do most of your back-to-school shopping online. Many stores offer curbside pickup, so you do not even have to get out of your car. You could have the school supplies shipped to your home as well. 

Tip #6: Take Advantage of Tax-Free Back-to-School Shopping

If you do not want to pay sales taxes on back-to-school supplies, check with your children’s school or state tax office to find out when tax-free shopping will occur. There are numerous items and supplies that you can purchase tax-free, including computers and certain other technology items. However, avoiding paying sales tax can require shopping in stores rather than online.

Tip #7: Size Backpacks to Your Child’s Size

You do not want to worry about your child developing back and joint problems from the wrong backpack. You want a backpack with padded shoulder straps, a padded back, and extra-wide pockets. Alternatively, you might want to consider a rolling backpack if your child will have heavy loads like transporting musical instruments or heavy school books.

Tip #8: Purchase Higher-Quality School Supplies

One mistake many parents and nannies make is purchasing lower-quality items simply because they cost less and to save money. However, in the long run, you often end up spending more on lower-quality school supplies than investing in higher-quality ones at the beginning of the school year.

Do yourself and your children a favor, and purchase higher-quality school supplies that are more durable and which could potentially last the entire school year.

Tip #9: Donate Old School Clothes

If you have a lot of old school clothes your children have outgrown, donate them to a local charity to help children who are less fortunate and in need. Plus, you could qualify for a tax deduction. Just remember to ask for a receipt when making the donation. 

Tip #10: Get Your Children Involved

Buying back-to-school supplies and clothing is a great learning experience for children of all ages, even teenagers. Additionally, allowing them to decide what supplies and clothing they buy ensures they will not complain later that you did not get them what they wanted.

By using these tips, you will make short work of your back-to-school shopping in no time!

Finding Household Staff for the Upcoming School Year

If you are looking for a nanny, chauffeur, personal chef, or other household staffing for your children or the entire family, please feel free to contact Staffing at Tiffanie’s at 866-484-5550 today.

If you are a nanny or another household professional looking for employment, please feel free to apply with us to be considered for our open household staffing positions.