School Savings Primer

It’s that time of year when many parents battle their kids over a laundry list of expensive back-to-school items, including high-end smartphones, tablets, designer clothes and the latest footwear. It doesn’t have to be this way. Here’s how you and your children can have an easier experience.

Create a Game Plan

Create a strategy and a budget to meet back-to-school costs. Include all reasonable expenses and perhaps a secret extra cushion (we’ll explain soon). If you have some time, collect coupons for products you would buy with or without the discount. Check competing store prices and develop a game plan.

Needs vs. Wants

Next, talk to your kids about needs and wants. Your children might want expensive earbuds but need books and supplies. Agree to buy things they absolutely need. Once you agree that a $200 pair of jeans and $1,000 smartphone are wants and not needs, you can begin to come to an agreement.

You All Win

Now, buy the agreed-upon items. If you find it in your heart and budget to reward your children for their good faith, you might offer to buy one or two of their wants. Now you’re a hero and everyone is happy, if not a little poorer and exhausted for the experience.