Random Thoughts

Admit it. Back to school shopping is a real pain. First, you have to contend with crowds of other parents and kids who are on the same school supply scavenger hunt as you. Then, there’s the list of supplies from your kid’s teacher. You know there will be one or two items on there that will create controversy with your child. Perhaps the teacher wants everyone to have a plain three-ring binder with pockets. She specifically asks that you not get one that has a closing flap over it. However, your child wants a fancy binder that not only has a flap, but also a built-in calculator, a fold-out ruler, and a clipboard in the back. Telling your fifth grader why her binder choice won’t work while you’re blocking one of the aisles of Walmart is never fun. Better to buy the thing and the one the teacher requested than make a scene.

You can avoid both the crowds and the meltdown by doing your back-to-school shopping online. You and your child can find a quiet time to sit in front of the computer and discuss what you need to buy. This is a much better way to explain to your child what is and isn’t acceptable to her new teacher. You can also do some quick and easy comparison shopping, something that’s difficult to do with brick and mortar stores where you have to schlep around to different places.

Don’t forget that many retailers offer discounts and deals exclusively to online customers. By using www.offers.com, Walmart coupons and free or discounted shipping offers, you can really save money when you make your purchases through a website. Do your back-to-school shopping online one time, and chances are good that you’ll never go back to your old routine. Your child and your pocketbook will thank you.