Chasing the Fionist Dream

It might be hard to believe, but our kids will be heading back to school in about three weeks! If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to get ready for some back-to-school shopping. If you’ve done this before, you know that costs can add up quickly.

Here are some ways to bring down those expenses.

1. Shop your closet first. We have about 25 erasers, 17 book covers and several unused notebooks in our home school supply closet. No need to buy something you already have. What do you have in yours?
   
   
2. Stick to the list. Your child’s school sent you a school supplies list. Buy the things on the list, plus backups of the things you expect to get lost or used up quickly (such as pencils, scissors, and glue sticks) No need to buy other things too while you’re at it.
   
   
3. Avoid name brands. They’re cheaper.
   
   
4. Stock stores are your friend. Max Stock, Hastock, Big Stock, etc. Stay away from the stores at the mall that sell school supplies for three times the price.
   
   
5. School uniform shirt deals. Most Israeli public elementary schools require students to wear a solid colored t-shirt with the school’s logo on it. We generally buy our daughter’s school shirts for 6 for 100 at Fox or 8 for 100 at Bigood, since both accept BuyMe. Many chains run similar sales. Logo printing is included in the price.
   
   
6. Consider handmedowns. School uniform shirts, books, and anything else that was only used a handful of times and is still in good condition. Good for the planet and for your wallet.
   
   
7. Check if you are eligible for free money from the government. Bituach Leumi provides study grants at the beginning of every school year for children of single-parent families and children from families with four or more children who receive certain subsistence benefits. You can check your eligibility and register for the first time here.
   
   
8. Include your kids while shopping. And not only to have them pick out the things or make sure the clothes fit. Teach them to look at prices and find the best deals to help you stay within budget. Including your kids in the thinking and planning behind your purchases is a great way to teach them about money.

Wishing all of our readers a happy and successful return to school. And parents – make sure to celebrate and treat yourselves (but don’t go overboard, k? 😉). You earned it.

What can you add to this list?

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