There’s a lot of reasons why so many parents have turned to homeschooling. From wanting to be a part of your child’s education to eliminating problems like bullying or social problems, homeschooling is a great way to help children learn to love their education. There’s only one catch though. A lot of homeschoool items can really set back parents on a tight budget. There’s a whole lot you need to get your classes started and if you’re not sure where to start you could find yourself sinking even more money into your children’s education than you have. Luckily, there’s a few simple tricks that can ensure you have all of the education needs for your children without having to pay a ton of money for them. With the financial burden gone you’ll be able to concentrate more on lesson plans.

1. Online Programs
Recently there seems to have been a surge of online programs that your children can participate in in order to earn a diploma and be successful in their educational endeavors. There’s actually a lot of programs that are ran my private institutions. These schools require students to listen to lectures, turn in course work and take test online. You can choose from programs that are out of state or within your local district. Many of these programs do charge a tuition, but if this is the case books are usually included so you won’t have to worry about the extra cost of each class. If you’re wanting to stay closer with your own school districts standards then look to see if your public schools are offering an online option. This has become quite popular recently and helps keep the classroom size smaller while ensuring all kids are getting the education they need. The online schools ran by public schools will provide you with everything you need, so you don’t have to worry about money. These schools will ensure your child is following the same education as everyone else too!

2. Second Hand Goods
When you’re starting from scratch over even preparing for the school year in advance then check out your local thrift stores. A lot of other homeschoolers tend to donate books when they’re finished with them, so you may end up finding everything you need in one stop. The best thing about the thrift store is you can probably get every book on your must have list for less than $20, which is a complete steal. You may also look for items like a desk, chair or even a computer in the thrift store. These items are a must for homeschool, but you don’t have to over spend on them. Another great way to find supplies is on websites like Craig’s List where other homeschoolers will post their used supplies. If you know someone who has homeschooled before don’t be afraid to ask if there’s any books you can borrow. If you have more than one child then make sure to hold onto the books the other children use. These will come in handy when it is your younger children’s turn to use them and will help you save even more money.

3. Library
You should never overlook your local library. This can be one of the best sources of education for your child and will give you unlimited resources to information you may have never knew existed. If you don’t know where to start then talk with your local librarian as they’ve probably had numerous homeschoolers pass through their doors. With the information available in the library you should be able to get a full curriculum and you may not even need to buy a book. A lot of libraries will allow you to photocopy pages for a small fee, so if there is a book you can’t check out then you’re covered. You can also access the internet from this location. Here you should be able to find even more help in your task of creating and enforcing your child’s curriculum.

4. Free Days
One of the best things about homeschooling is you can take a field trip day whenever you feel like it. This means you can schedule some hands on learning with your city’s local schedule. There’s a lot of museums, zoos, aquariums and other places of learning that offer free days. Usually kids can get in free on these days, but you should always call ahead or look online to make sure you can get in free too! This will cut down on a lot of your spending for outside learning and will also broaden your children’s perspective on the world. Museums are a great place to frequent because they’re always adding new items to their collection, so you can plan your lessons around some of the changes. Your kids will love learning this way and may actually retain the information better than during class time at home. You will also be able to turn out all of the electronics in the home and save a little cash on your utility bill too!

5. Utilize the Internet
Living in the digital age is a huge benefit for parents that are getting into homeschool. You can find basically everything you need to start about your little school without spending anything extra. To begin with, you can look up your state and districts homeschools laws with a simple search. This will give you the power to follow the rules to a tee so you don’t have to worry about the district questioning your methods. Once you’ve figured out what needs to be done then you can begin to do a little research into your child’s curriculum. If you’re not sure you want to write your own then have no fear. There’s a lot of different curriculums online, so you can choose the one that suits you best or you can edit some of the schedules you prefer to suit your needs. When you’re ready to begin with your course work then you can easily print out lesson plans, homework and or research guides that will lead your child to a successful learning experience. You can even find games and videos that will further the learning experience.

6. There’s an App!
If you have a smartphone or tablet then you’re on your way to providing your kids with some amazing educational tools that will suit their attention spans. There’s a lot of apps online, so weeding out the good from the bad might take some time. However, if you want a quick start to find some great apps then your suggestion window on the app store of your choice can actually go very far. Here, you should be able to find an abundance of games that will help children learn to read, write, understand shapes and colors and other core information. As your kids progress there’s plenty of science and math apps that can help boost these very important skills. You may even find some cool projects to work on through your phone or tablet. When your students reach high school then there’s a whole lot of SAT/ACT prep apps to consider. There are also core classes that can help them go even further. If you’re looking for a more advanced look then there is college classes that can be found in a number of apps. These lectures will give students a taste of what the future holds and can help improve many of their elective and core skills.

7. Teacher’s Discounts
One great advantage to homeschooling is you technically count as a teacher. This will open you up to a world of supplies that will help you be more successful in your job. You may even consider printing out some homeschool cards with a logo you and your children design. So, next time when you go in a book or teacher store let the clerk know you’re a homeschool teacher and ask for the discount. It might not be much at some local or chain stores, but every little bit will help. When you take your children on field trips you can also ask for this discount. A lot of places will honor it and will give you the discount you deserve for you and your kids. This can help you pay for more field trips so you can offer well rounded trips to children. One of the best places to ask for the discount is wholesale stores. This is where you’ll get some amazing deals on school supplies and work books without having to pay a small fortune for them.

8. Use What You Have
Homeschool can be pretty convenient in regards to supplies. Unlike public schools where you’re asked to stock up right away, with homeschool you can use what you have before having to shop again. This is especially important when it comes to maintaining a budget. Most homes already have pens and pencils, so pull out these items and replenish when the ink or lead is gone. Paper and notebooks are the same story as you won’t need a ton of paper just to get started. In fact, a lot of your work might be done in a booklet or on print out sheets. You may also want to use your recycling to help cut down on cost. Oatmeal containers and other canisters make great supply holders and may come in handy with some projects. You can also use cereal boxes to keep track of kids work or use it as a turn in box for work that needs to be graded .These items can even be customized to suit each individual child.

9. Take It Outside
Staying indoors all of the time can be stifling, so turn off the electronics and head outside on good weather days. There is something about fresh air and natural light that helps bring out the imagination in students. You can have them look closer at nature in order to figure out how the world works, or read from a novel you’re teaching them. You might even consider packing a picnic and enjoying the rest of your lessons in the backyard or a park. Learning outside can help children retain the information more. It will also allow them to move around, burn some energy and encourages exercise from an early age. Plus, you’re use of electricity and other utilities will go down for the day which is great for your savings!

10. Find a Group
One of the biggest assets you can have in homeschooling a group to lean on. This will help create a support system for you when you feel like homeschooling might be too much. There should be a few groups in your community. Try looking online or ask you school district if there are any registered groups. Once you have found one try to make some friends as the members here will be able to guide you through the early process of homeschooling. They will also be able to give you tips about where to find cheap school books or how to work on curriculum without purchasing them. You may even be able to take part in a book exchange which will help save on a lot of money in the long run. One of the best things about groups is you’ll be able to create outings with other homeschoolers. This will give your children some social interactions and can cut down on the price of some field trips thanks to group discounts.

Homeschooling can be an amazing experience for parent and child. With these tips you should be able to forget about the cost and concentrate on the well being of your child. After a couple weeks of homeschool you’ll feel like you’ve been doing it for years and you won’t have to alter your budget too much to make it happen!

With autumn quickly rolling in, it might be time to consider bad weather in your area and how to survive it. There’s an abundance of reasons to have an emergency kit, but many people often operate under the idea that things won’t happen to them. On the other hand, some people will go entirely overboard on their supply kit and may end up spending their life savings on an event that might not happen. There is a middle ground here though and it can be affordable if you know what you’re doing. With these ten tips you’ll be able to feel a little more security when it comes to your family’s safety without forcing yourself to over spend on items you’ll never need.

1. Keep it Simple
There’s a lot of items out there that are markected towards survivalist. Although these items might come in handy during specific incidents, the liklihood of you finding yourself in some of the scenarios is slim to impossible. Instead of concentrating on the items you might need in an emergency thing about the items you know you’ll need. This will actually simplify things considerably which is always great for your budget. If you have to think twice about something then it probably shouldn’t be on your list. Also, if you have to go through several pages of instructions just to figure it out then try to avoid adding it to the collection too. Try to stick to food, water, protection and warmth. That being said, you don’t need a room full of guns or even food. Start your supplies out with a little container of basics and if you feel the need then add to them later. This will help you keep only items you need, so you never end up spending thousands on human powered television set or something equally as silly.

2. One Step At a Time
Many people believe they have to build up their emergency supplies in one big purchase. So, instead of looking for the right way to store up they end up spending thousands on pre-made emergency packages that can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. This never has to be the case though. There’s actually a great weekly program available online that can help you build up your stock for just $10 a month. This amount of money is generally easy to come up with for most family’s and goes a lot further than you think. The plan has family’s buying beans, rice and other essentials which build a strong and durable emergency supply kit. You may also want to consider doing this with other emergency supply items. Buying an extra gallon of water a month is a cheap and efficient way to stock up so you know you’re going to be ready in case the water supply is contaminated.

3. Watch for Sales
One of the best ways to start up your emergency supply kit is to wait until there are sales on certain items. Canned foods are actually a great item to have in your kit and when they’re on sale you can buy a whole lot more of them than you could at regular price. This allows you to enjoy having more in your kit without having to go overboard on spending. Other items like water, seeds and cooking supplies are usually good to buy during these periods too. If you don’t have a good first aid kit then watch out for sales in this department too. If you’re worried about a major emergency then you’re going to want to stock up on more than just the basics. Over the counter medications, bandages and items like peroxide and rubbing alcohol are important to have in your kit and are better to purchase when the price as been lowered.

4. Seeds
If you’re planning for a longer emergency kit then one of the best possible things you can pack is seeds. With seeds in your emergency kit you’ll have a better chance of being able to feed your family if something were to happen to cause long term inability to have food. Although you should always keep plenty of food in your kit, the seeds are a just in case measure. If you do find yourself without access to purchasing food then the seeds can be planted when you have a clearance to go outside. The more seeds you have the greater chance you’ll be able to have food for the family when your supply runs out. The best thing is, seeds are totally inexpensive. You can buy some packets for less than $.10. You can also take seeds out of your own foods. However, you should always read the back of the seed packet to ensure they will grow in your environment and also when it is safe to plant them.

5. Special Foods
When it comes to buying food you can trust to last awhile you should stick dehydrated or freeze dried foods. Dehydrated foods have all the water removed from them which helps them stay edible for much longer. If you keep these foods in an air tight container then they will last even longer, which means you won’t have to worry about replenishing your stock any time soon. The great thing about dehydrated foods is you can make them yourself. All you need is a food dehydrator and a recipe book, which is optional, and you’re ready to go. You can dehydrate fruits and vegetables as well as a variety of meats. Another route you can take if freeze dried foods. These items you tend to have to buy in a special store, but they have an amazing shelf life. Usually these foods are a bit pricier but you should be able to find a decent deal if you shop online.

6. Water
A lot of people will stack up bottles of water and feel like their job is done. Bottles of water can be some of the worst items to buy. To begin with, they’re a whole lot harder to ration than regular water and your family may be tempted to drink too much out of the individual bottles. They’re also far worse for the environment and you may find yourself surrounded by little plastic bottles before you’re free to leave your safety area. Instead of shopping for bottles try buy gallon jugs or larger. This will give you more water for your money and will ensure you’re stocked up and ready to go. It’s a lot easier to monitor how much someone is drinking with these bottles too as you can hand out a smaller portion to make supplies last a whole lot longer. You should also consider buying tablets to cleanse the water too. These can be crucial if you run out of your supply and need to drink from a potentially contaminated tap or open body of water.

7. Buy Bulk
Bulks buys will make your life easier when you’re purchasing items for your survival kit. This process won’t just allow you to get a lot more product for your money, but will ensure you have plenty of items in your stock in case an emergency does strike. Bulk food buys are one of the best things to find. If you can get large bags of flour, rice or beans then it is will probably help you save a lot more money than you expect. Medical supplies are another huge bonus when it comes to bulk buys. Here you will be able to buy bandages as well as medications that will ensure your family will be prepped for an emergency. Supplies for gardening are also a must have which will help you in case you have to grow your own food at one point. Try shopping at your local bulk store for these items, but if they don’t have the food or items you desire then there are special bulk stores that can help you find what you’re looking for.

8. Rethink Power
You may not always have power during an emergency so you should always rethink items that might be needed in case of an outage. Some of the best items to have around the house are lots of batteries. You can store them in the freeze to ensure they last longer, but buying these items can never hurt as they can be used for much. Along with the batteries you should have a very good flashlight. Bright lights are perfect for keeping the family feeling secure while also helping you know what’s going on in your area. You may also consider a battery powered radio so you can get updates on what is going and when it is safe to leave your bunker. There are many radio/tv/flashlight combinations on the market, but these tend to run batteries down faster, so you might want to keep it as simple as possible with this purchase. Other items that might help with your power problems would be a back up generator. These are fairly pricey, but you can find smaller ones that affordable and can be used for specific areas of the home. Flares and candles can be very important as well in case you are without power for a very long time. Make sure you also have matches, lighters, lighting fluid and other basic supplies in case you need to build a fire for light or warmth.

9. Canning
If you’re stilling having problems stocking up food then consider doing your own canning. This will help you get more out of your surplus produce and won’t cost you any more than basic foods would. The best thing about canning is you’re not limited to specific foods. Jams and preserves are some of the more common canned goods people make and will pack in plenty of vitamins and nutrients that the family needs to maintain their health. Of course, you may want to consider using less sugar on these items as they could become harmful if you’re living on preserves alone. Pickled items are another canning option which is actually very good for the body. Pickle as many vegetables as you can to keep a healthy variety in your life. Sauerkraut, kimchi and other fermented foods work wonders for the diet and are easy to store for safety meals. You may also want to can tomatoes, salsa and vegetable juice mixes for easy emergency meals.

10. Put Back Money
You’d be surprised as to how far money with go, especially in a power outage. With the electricity out most modern stores won’t be able to conduct business properly so cash will be the only way to get the last minute items you need. Putting back a little cash is also never a bad idea, even when it comes to emergencies like needing a new tire or anything else a rainy day fund might fix. You don’t have to put back a lot of money at once though. Start small and work your way up. Even if you only put back money little by little you should find that you have a pretty good fund going after a few months of saving. You don’t even have to worry about putting money back on a weekly basis if you don’t have that kind of spare. However, a lot of family’s have found success by giving up a fast food meal a month. Instead of using the money on the food it goes in the emergency fund.

No one wants to be in an emergency situation, but having a kit can actually alter the way you react to the problem if it does occur. With these simple tips you should have everything you need to be prepared at a price that didn’t even shake your budget’s scale. So, stop stressing out and get to working on your kit so you can have plenty of peace of mind during the stormy months!

It seems like just yesterday school was letting out for the summer and it was time to figure out what to do with the kids over the extended break. Now, August is nearing its end, which only means one thing! It’s time to check out the back to school list and try not to panic over the abundance of items the kids are requested to purchase. There’s a few ways to avoid the painful budgeting that back to school supplies may cause for your household. With a little know how and some major shopping tactics you should be able to get your children back in school without stressing over spending too much on supplies. Now, you can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet the back to school months bring!

1. Wait
Although most school want students to show up with their bundle of supplies, it won’t affect your children’s grades if they show up empty handed. Try to send kids with the basics, such as a pencil or pen and paper. This will allow them to participate in the first days activities, if they need the supplies at all, without having to borrow from other students. When you drop your student off for the first day take a moment and talk to the teacher. If you explain you’re having a tough time getting the supplies the teacher many give you a list of things that are going to be absolutely mandatory for success in the class. A lot of the time the supplies will get distributed between students, so there will be no urgency on your student’s supplies. Some teacher’s may even tell you not to worry about the supplies because there will be plenty to share. Other teacher’s might give you a list of items that will be required throughout the year. This will allow you to buy supplies when needed rather than forcing you to load up at the beginning of the year. Even if your child’s teacher can give you a small break on supplies it could help save you a bit of money.

2. Last Year’s Stuff
Let’s face it, sometimes we’re asked to buy items that never get used. You probably have at least 2 or 3 empty notebooks, a set of perfectly good pens and pencils as well as packets of paper. Instead of getting rid of these items you should put them in storage over the summer. When the school list comes out then look at the supplies you already have an start marking off the list. Even if some of your items were already used you may want to consider recycling them for another school year. You child’s favorite folder or binder can be easy to transform for the next school year. You may also hold onto items that are grade appropriate for the next sibling. Items like flashcards and other learning supplies are easy to hold onto and will make your shopping supplies even easier to purchase. If your student won’t be sharing with other students then pack up some pencils from around the house. As the pencils become too small to use or broken you can easily replace them without worrying about too much money. Even backpacks are easy to reuse, especially for younger kids who don’t have a lot to carry around.

3. Tax Free Weekends
Most schools within a state start around the same time period. This is great because tax free weekends usually happen around the same time school is about to start. These weekends can be crucial when it comes to saving money though. Generally, everything you can think to buy won’t be taxed during the two day period. Thus, you will end up saving at least 6-10% on the items your children need for school. From school supplies to clothes, this might be the best time to endure the crowd and get your shopping out of the way. If you can find a store that is doing a sale on top of the tax free weekend then you’ll be doing even better than shopping the clearance bins! If you aren’t willing to do all of your shopping on this mega weekend then you should at least consider shopping for the more expensive supplies, such as a back pack or calculator during the tax free weekend. If you’re not sure when your state is having a tax free weekend then try looking online, calling your school or asking local merchants.

4. Go Plain
Kids love to personalize everything and who can blame them? Its fun going to school with special items to help show off a little personality. However, these items can be pretty pricey and will make your school shopping bill raise even higher if you’re not paying attention to how many you have in your cart. The best thing you can do with school supplies is to go as plan as possible. Generally you can get colored notebooks and folders for less than a dollar. This will help out a whole lot when it comes to buying for multiple children. Try to stay away from character items when you’re buying the other essentials like pencils, scissors and crayons. Chances are, your child’s supplies are going to be shared amongst the class, so there’s no point in splurging on items that your child won’t specifically use. If you can cut down on the major costs for most of the supplies then you’ll have more money to splurge on items like a backpack that will be exclusively used by your child. However, if your budget is still tight try to pick a backpack that is a solid color rather than any special designs as this will ring you out at a much cheaper price.

5. Use Apps
In the age of technology what could help you out more than you all powerful smartphone! When it comes to shopping—there’s an app for that. Actually, there’s a whole lot of apps for that and a lot of them won’t cost you a penny. Before you leave the house try to find a copy of the school supply list for your child’s class. Once you have it downloaded or printed out then take to the app. A lot of apps will tell you where the item is in stock, but there are also a lot that will help you find the item at the cheapest possible price. Try to find as many of your items this way as it will save on gas and get you the best possible deal. Of course, recently many stores have come out with their own price comparison apps. These apps allow you to input recent purchases. If the app finds a lower price then what you paid then the store that you purchased the item from originally with happily do a price match for you. This type of app is great for shoppers who like to stick with routine stores or do all of their shopping in one place.

6. Stock Up Early
Some of the back to school sales might be a bit too much to pass up, but there is actually a cheaper way to get school supplies. The key to getting the cheapest possible school supplies is to shop at the end of the school year. In May and June when the kids are taking the first dip in the pool is when you should think about buying school supplies for next year. This is largely due to supply and demand. Not as many people need the supplies during the summer months, so you’ll get the lowest possible price on the items they’re trying to sell. You may even get some of the products on clearance which will save you even more than you could imagine. So, with your kids school supplies out of the way before they can even think about the next semester you can start budgeting for the pricier items like clothes or, better yet, a nice vacation to get away from the worries of school!

7. Buy Bulk
If you have more than one child then you’ll probably find your school supply list a bit repetitive. If this is the case then your life is about to get a whole lot cheaper and easier. When it comes to fulfilling the same order on a list then it is so much easier just to buy the items in bulk. For instance, if each child needs 5 pencils a piece then the numbers going to add up fairly quickly. Buy a bulk pack of 20 or 30 and you’ll easily be able to give each child the number they need and have extras for all the mishaps the school year might bring. The same can be said with pens and markers. A lot of other products that come in handy in bulk are loose sheets of paper and notebooks. Generally you can buy a large box of these items and you’ll have plenty to share amongst everyone. You may even be lucky enough to have school supplies for next year. You should consider buying items like printer supplies in bulk and school projects always call for printed items.

8. Community Programs
Sometimes budgets might be a bit too tight to even consider school supplies. If this is the case then you may want to talk to your school about community programs in your area. Generally public schools, churches and other aid programs will be able to instruct you on how to apply or get in touch with a program that will help your children get the supplies they need. You may have to fill out some paperwork or volunteer to help out, but the program should be able to offer your children the supplies they need. If your area does not have one of these programs then you may want to discuss your problem with a church or your child’s school. Sometimes the school can give your child a waiver for the supplies or they can offer the student donated supplies from previous years. You may also want to look online to see if there are any stores offering aid with supplies for family who are having trouble purchasing them.

9. Dollar Stores
A lot of people tend to head straight for the department store when it comes to buying school supplies. However, there is always a much cheaper option that gets passed up. That is, the dollar store. Here you will receive major discounts on items and may even be able to buy some items in bulk for a mere dollar. This can come in handy when you’re shopping for many and it will ensure your budget doesn’t have to look as grim after the shopping period is over. Many people choose not to shop at the dollar store because they believe the items to be a lower quality, which is proven not to be case.

10. Coupons
When it comes to back to school shopping you shouldn’t be without your coupons! Although there will already be a whole lot of sales going on you may still be able to find coupons that will take the price even further down. Try looking for coupons in your local sales ads first, but when you get through these items then take to the internet. You’ll be surprised by how many stores offer online coupons. All you have to do is print them out, plan your shopping trip and enjoy saving a whole lot of money on the supplies you need!

Back to school shopping can be a lot of fun if you let go of the price tag. With these ten tips you should be able to forget about spending money and enjoy the last days of summer you have with your kids. After all, pretty soon it will be carpools and sports you’ll have to worry about, so enjoy the savings while possible.

Public schools aren’t for every child. A lot of parents are looking for a way to prep their children for ivy leagues school while many others want to address their children’s special interests. No matter the reason you choose to remove your child from the public school system and enter them into the world of private school there will always be the enormous price tag looming in the back of your mind. If you’re on a tight budget then private schooling might not even be an option for your children. However, there are many ways you can cut down on the price of tuition so your children can be given the opportunities you desire. These ten tips will give you a helpful guide to finding new ways to save money on tuition so you can get back to your normal expenditures without the extra stress of these costs.

1. Look for scholarships/grants
You might be surprised as to how many scholarships and grants are available for children that attend private schools. In fact, when you apply to the school you can talk to the financial aid office about potential grants just as you would if your child was entering college. There’s a lot of grants available for lower income families so don’t be afraid to apply. After all, every little bit helps, so even if you’re only granted enough for help with books it should take a little burden off of the price. There are also a lot of scholarships available for a variety of students. If your child is planning on going to a school that is talent based then you may want to apply for these specific scholarships. The scholarships might automatically be given to you via your schools acknowledgment programs or you may have to have you student perform in order to be considered. Many scholarships are grade based so if your child has strong grades and extra curricular activities then apply to as many as possible. There are also scholarships designed for special needs students whose parents might not be able to afford the school otherwise.

2. Negotiate Payment Plan
When it comes to paying for your tuition a lot of schools might ask you to pay everything up front. This is usually only a preference and if you meet with their financial department they should be able to work out a payment plan that will help you become less financially burdened. By working up a payment plan you can easily budget in the cost instead of worrying about finding a way to come up with the money straight away. A lot of parents may even feel the need to take out a loan in order to pay for the schooling. This will only force you to pay more for the tuition because of the interest costs. A lot of the time working out a payment plan will also help you find more scholarships and other financial help that will ease the burden even more.

3. Reward Systems
A lot of schools have set up deals with local companies that can help you pay for your tuition little by little. Try to make an appointment with your school and talk about reward programs and how you can work to earn some discounts on your child’s tuition fees. Some schools will even utilize a special card. The card is usually linked to gas stations, grocery stores and other local merchants. When you shop in these locations a tiny percentage of your purchase goes back to your child’s tuition. It might not take a whole lot of money off of your tuition, but every little bit can help. Some schools will also work with referral programs. If you can talk your friends and family about considering the school then you may end up getting money back on your tuition when they enroll. Every school is different though, so make sure you ask so you don’t miss out on great deals.

4. Utilize Tax Credits
Your state charges you taxes for schooling, but since you’re actually paying for your child to attend a private school you should be able to get a bit of a refund. Talk to your accountant about this when you go in to file taxes and see if you qualify. Make sure to bring in your tuition bills as well as any receipts you might have for school related purchases. For some household’s this refund might not be possible, but for many it is a possibility. If your family does qualify for the refund then don’t spend it where you shouldn’t. Instead, try to find a savings accounts with a good interest rate and deposit it there. When the next school year rolls around the money should have grown which will allow you to pay for tuition more efficiently, or at least purchase school related items.

5. Voucher Programs
A lot of students with special needs are forced into private schools because their public school simply can’t meet their needs. For these students there is often a small amount of state government assistance that might take a bit of the burden off of the parents. If your child is being sent to a private school for this reason then try to find a voucher program for your area. Some school counselors will be able to help you with this, but you may be on your own when it comes to heavy research and application for the vouchers. The vouchers may also be based on financial needs, so you might have to wait awhile before you’re processed. Once approved the vouchers will be given to your school to either pay of your child’s tuition or at least put a dent in the amount you do owe. Of course, not every state offers these vouchers, so if you’re in a state that doesn’t try to write to your senator. The more people you can get to protest the issue the more likely you’ll be to get the vouchers you need for your child’s success.

6. Trade in Time
A lot of schools tend to be a little short staffed, especially when it comes to activities. Private schools tend to have even fewer volunteers because the parents assume the school can take care of everything since they charge the students a tuition price. So, if you’re looking to help with tuition then talk to your schools and ask if you can volunteer time to help take off some of the tuition price. This can be especially useful if you have a special talent that the school might need. Talk about incorporating a craft or dance class for the kids, or coaching a sport for the school. If you have mechanical skills then you might consider doing part time maintenance skills for the school. This might be especially helpful in the technology department. You might also ask if the school needs chaperons for events or field trips as this is a big area where there is a shortage of parents. No matter what you can offer the best thing you can do is ask, because you never know just what your school might need.

7. Research School
Although it might seem like a no brainer you should always research any school you consider sending your child to. You should look for more than simple academics and reputation though. A lot of schools have reviews that would impress any hopeful academic, but the thing is they might not be right for your student. Academics are very important, but every student is different. You should try to learn the teaching methods and curriculum plans before you decide on the school. This will ensure your child will get your money’s worth at school and won’t get lost in the teaching method. It will also ensure your child won’t fail out of the school which wouldn’t help you financially at all. Some schools will have a much higher tuition cost due to reputation though. If you can get the same education at an institute with a lower price then why should you go with the school that is going to leave you in a financial burden. If you’re still unsure about the school ask to take a tour or see if your child could have a sit in day where he or she checks out the school first hand.

8. Fundraiser
One way to help ease a lot of the troubles of the tuition is to work on a fundraiser or two to earn a little extra money. This could be a family activity, especially in the summer months. There are so many different fundraiser you could try to help you earn some money. A car wash is usually a pretty popular option and is a great way to keep cool during the summer months. If you’re not sure about finding a location to host your car wash then consider something a little smaller. You can always ask a local grocery store if you can set up a bake sale to sell some of your homemade treats. Lemonade is also a good way to have the kids help you earn some money. If you’re looking for a larger scale fundraiser then try to host a yard sale after clearing the house of items you don’t necessarily want or need. These are only a few simple ways to host fundraisers as individuals. Your school might also have a few ways for your to fundraiser to help out your tuition. Selling popcorn and chocolate are some of the common ways to earn some money towards your final tuition costs.

9. Always Save
You don’t have stick to saving large sums of money at once. Instead try to save a little every day. This can be as simple as cutting back on your lunch money or dropping your change into a jar. One simple way to get the money to add up fast is to add a jar that people have donate to when they do something wrong. This will fill up quickly and will teach your family a few lessons in behavior, so its a win win situation. You can also set aside a small amount of money each payday from your entertainment or splurge fun. With a small rainy day savings you should be able to add some extra money to your tuition fees so you can pay them off a little faster.

10. Minimize Additional Costs
There’s a lot of add ons when it comes to schools that can be significantly reduced. For instance, transportation to and from school can be cut down my taking a bus or carpooling. This is better for the environment anyway and will help cut down on individual transportation costs. School books can be purchased used online if need me. There’s also programs that allow you to borrow books. If you’re having trouble with a book then talk to your school or the specific teacher and ask if there’s any way your child could borrow a book for the term. This could ease so much of the cost as books can run hundreds of dollars. Another common expenditure is lunches. Try to pack a lunch for your child if possible, or sign the child up for reduced lunches if you qualify. Uniforms can also be handed down from sibling to sibling or bought used from a yard sale or other students. Just try to get creative as much as possible with your school purchases.

Private school can be a great way to get your student a head start in the academic world. However, the price tag might scare you away from the schools altogether. This school year you may want to give the private school a chance. With these simple tips you may find that affording the education your child needs is only a few steps away.

The classroom is a great place to spark the imagination of students while stimulating their minds to work even greater than before. Unfortunately, today’s teachers aren’t given a whole lot of spending money to spice up their classroom. This often mean that everything in the room was paid for solely by the teacher. There are a few ways for all of you teachers to make your classroom extraordinary without having to spend a bundle to do so. With these ten suggestions your new students will love the way the classroom looks and you won’t end up in a budgeting crisis before the school year even begins. These tips are also great for any parent looking to help out with decorations this school year, as most teachers will be incredibly appreciative of any help you may offer.

1. Cork Board
Cork board is one of the greatest items to have in your classroom. It doesn’t matter if you’re teaching older or younger students as the cork board can be utilized to be efficient in any classroom setting. One amazing idea for the cork board is to keep letters and pictures given to you from previous students. This is a great for teachers as sometimes it is a good reminder that you’re doing an excellent job. Cork board is also an amazing bulletin board for what the classroom is doing. You can post schedules for parents or reminders about tests and homework. You may also want to post up pictures of the students working and having fun to make the classroom a lot more homey. The cork board can also be used as a goal chart so your students can keep track of what they want to learn this year as well as how far they’ve progressed since the first day of school.

2. Board Games
It might seem a big farfetched, but games are an excellent décor item for the classroom, especially if you’re working with younger children. Board games are a fun part of learning so try to allow them during your student’s free time as much as possible. However, instead of putting the games in worn down boxes on a shelf you may want to let them hang on the wall for all to see. This can easily be accomplished by adding velco to the back of the games as well as the wall. When the kids want to play a specific game all they have to do is pull it off the wall and begin. This makes cleanup a whole lot easier too as the board will go right back on the wall. Doing this will also ensure that a lot of your games will last a whole lot longer. Folding can cause tears in the board which require tape to fix. With the boards always flat it’s much easier to notice which games might need to be recycled. As far as game pieces go, simply put them in a ziplock and add them to the back of the board. If you’re worried about the pieces getting lost then keep them in your drawer and have the kids check them out when they want to play.

3. Stars
What kid doesn’t enjoy a looking at the night’s sky. Well, with a few alterations you can add a star effect to your classroom that will really spark your students imaginations. One simple way to do this is to buy a new or used shade. If you can’t find a shade to use the pick up some posterboard, it will work the same but will mean you’ll have to apply the night’s sky every time you want to use it. Once you have your materials then punch different sized holes in the shade/posterboard. You can use pins, hole punches, scissors and anything else you come up with to do this. When the project is complete put it in the window and watch your classroom transform. This is a really great trick for astronomy lessons and nap or quiet time. You might also want to consider the glow in the dark stars. These can be applies on the ceiling, chairs, desks and anywhere else you think fitting. To make things even more exciting have the students draw their own stars with their names, pictures, dreams and goals.

4. Utilize Decals
Decals may become one of your best friends during the school year. These amazing items can be placed in so many areas of the classroom in order to cheaply make you room fantastic. Some of the more popular decals work wonders on dry boards. If you want to save money on markers and time in the classroom then you might want to order or create decal for items you’re constantly writing on the board. Some great examples of decals would be your name, homework, months and the subjects you’ll be working on. These decals can be washed off with soap and water, but will stand up to your eraser. You can also order decals for propular quotes that you’d like to inspire the class. These can be switched out throughout the year. Decals with images of subjects or popular kids characters are also a great idea for your classroom. You might also consider getting decals for your desk and maybe even come for the kids desks.

5. Seating
Story time is an important part of your lessons. Of course, kids are going to want somewhere a little more comfortable to sit, especially if your flooring isn’t carpeted. There’s a few ways to inexpensively take care of your student’s sitting needs though. One easy way is to pick up a roll of cabinet grip liner. This liner has a nice feel to it and comes in a variety of colors. Once you have a few rolls then cut the pieces into different shapes that are large enough to sit on. The liners will keep kids sitting in one spot and will add a little cushion and prevent chills from the cold floor. Another way to make seating a little more comfortable is to to buy a selection of clearanced fabrics. From these fabrics cut circles large enough to sit on and sew them with another type of fabric. You can add passing if you want, but the fabric should be enough to keep the cold floor from bothering the children. When the two different fabrics the kids can pick which side they like bed to sit on. You can even do different colors to create teams for trivia questions or other game oriented activities.

6. Recycling
You might be surprised as to the items you can find in your recycling that will benefit the classroom. One great example is using all those old baby food jars as storage for smaller items such as buttons, glitter, sequence and cotton balls. Oatmeal containers and milk jugs can easily be given a make over to hold items such as crayons and pencils. The milk jugs are also great for keeping your students group items in order. Each group can have a mug filled with everything needed to complete tasks for the day. Another great idea is to use sand pails that might not get a whole lot of use during the school year. These make great pencil holders. You could even create a pail for sharp pencils and another for full or broken pencils in order to keep your students on task with work, rather than worrying about their pencils. If you have a lot of cereal boxes then add them to the classroom so students can turn in their homework or tests, rather than spending money on bins.

7. Books
What goes better in the classroom than books? So, use your books as a little décor to get your young minds working. Most classrooms have plenty of books in them, but if you work with kids you know you’re going to end up with broken spines, ripped out pages and pages filled with drawings. Instead of getting rid of these books try to add them to the classroom. Try cutting out some of the pictures from the book and mod podge them onto desks, coat racks, shelves, cork boards or even the wall. You may even find some unaltered text to add to the picture for an extra special touch. If the cover isn’t too damaged try to frame it and add it to the wall or if you have lots of covers then try to cover a wall with the items. This will inspire kids to read more. You could even give them bonus points if they read every book that appears on the wall. Another idea is to take book sleeves and hang them from the ceiling for all to see. This can easily be done with clothes line and clothes pins.

8. Bring Items From Home
Let’s face it, you’ve probably got a whole lot of cool items in your storage unit that are just collecting dust. Before classes start do a little late spring cleaning and see what you can come up with for your classroom. A couple of always amazing ideas are large maps or any sized globe. Kids love to learn about the world and these tools might be not be seen as often as they should be. Even if you’re not studying these items they will add a great vibe to the classroom and may even aid you in some of your current event discussions. Other old items might be a great addition to the classroom too. For instance, old cameras, type writers and phones always look cool and are items most kids won’t be exposed to. Even if the items don’t work they make great show and tell items that will help kids understand how the technology they use today came to be. Stuffed animals and other toys are always a nice touch too, so if your kids aren’t using it anymore then try to find some way to add it to the classroom. Once you start looking you may find a world of cool items to help spruce up the classroom.

9. Tissue Paper
It’s cheap, easy to work with and has unlimited uses. Yes, tissue paper can really go a long way in your classroom. You can easily use colored paper to cover a wall to add a little extra style to the room. It also makes a great liner for bulletin boards and to decorate your desk. A little starch and paper can go a long way when it comes to adding decorations to the classroom window. This will help you keep up with the seasons for a whole lot less. Another great thing to do with tissue paper is to grate fun items like a story time tree. This won’t take a lot of time and will provide you with a great place to read to the kids. You can also make a fireplace, campfire or other decorative items that go alone with the season.

10. Swap Items
As the years pass there’s a good chance you’re going to have a lot of supplies you’re just not using. For instance, some of your bulletin board liners might not suit your taste or needs anymore. Instead of throwing these items out try to trade them for something another teacher has. This will give you new supplies without having to spend any money or forcing you to keep items you don’t want in storage. It will also create bonding within the school so you and the other teacher’s will know you each have someone to rely on which could help with spending money in the future.

Creating your dream classroom can be hard when you’re on a tight budget. With these few tips you should be able to find some way to create a fun environment for a whole lot less. Now, all you have to worry about is getting everything set up before class begins!

With school just right around the corner its time for cheer camps and try outs to start up. This can be a great end to the summer, but when it comes to purchasing all the items your child needs to enjoy this sport it might be a huge shock to your budget. From uniforms to field trips, there’s a whole lot of items you’ll need to fund during the cheer season, especially if your child is in high school or competitive cheerleading programs. Luckily, there are a few ways to avoid some of the initial cost. With these ten tips you’ll be able to keep your child happy and looking within the sport without having to break up some of your budget to do so. Now, you can cheer along instead of worrying about you’re going to fund the upcoming months.

1. Fundraisers
There’s nothing more classic than holding a fundraiser for a sport. This can be done in several different ways though, so you don’t have to get bored with one or jump into something you’re going hate doing in the long term. For starters, there’s the ever famous sales pitch where students go door to door selling items to help fund their team. This method works well, but if you’re not up for spending a lot of time on an activity then you might want to skip this one. You also have to have money to put down on it, which is not good for tight budgets. Another great way to earn some funds in to hold a yard sale, bake sale, car wash or any other idea that might pull in a little money. These items are usually very easy to organize and with a little help from the neighborhood you shouldn’t have to put too much money into them. You could also consider creating a competition. Ask people to donate at the door or charge an entry fee. This is great because it can be held in your child’s school, with permission, or an outdoor area. It will also give the cheer team a chance to show what they have!

2. Order Uniforms Early
Early preparation is always a good idea, so try to find a way to get your uniform orders in as early as possible. If you’re ordering for just your child then you may want to put in your order as soon as you find out he or she has made the team. This can be as early as the end of the school year or weeks before the new school year begins. You should always take into consider how much your child may grow throughout the year though, so order a little bigger if you’re concerned about your student having a growth spurt. One way to enjoy better quality uniforms is to order early from your local tailor. This will allow you to have one of the better quality uniforms and by ordering early you won’t have to pay as much as those who put their orders in during peak times. If you’re ordering for the entire team then make sure to shop around for a good deal. When you find the price you’re looking for go ahead and order because the longer you wait the longer it will take to get the uniforms back to you due to high demand.

3. Donations
One great thing about communities is they’re usually willing to give in order to see the youth in their community succeed. If you’re having trouble funding your team then you might want to consider doing a call for donations. You can cheaply and easily run an ad in the local paper for a donation drive in your area. If you aren’t sure the newspaper will do much good then take to social media. These pages will generally hook a wide audience and will allow others to share the call for donations. You can also have the squad make up signs to post around time. With a little effort your cause should be passed around town with ease. In return for donations try to other something fun, such as a free entry to a game or a free drink at the concession stand. You should also keep donations open. For instance, some people may not be able to give money but items like shoes, pom poms and megaphones are always appreciated.

4. Carpool to Events
Chances are your squads going to have to do a bit of traveling during the season. This can take up a lot of the budget, especially if you plan on taking buses or other larger means of transportation. Instead of renting vehicles try to have some parents chaperon the event so you can spend less on gas and rental fees. If each member of the squad chips in a small amount for gas then everyone should be able to get to the destination without burning too much money. If you’re worried about getting your child to games and other events locally then try to talk to other squad parents and see if anyone else is willing to create a carpool. This works out great for parents that might have to work during certain games and will ensure the kids get to their destination without spending a lot of money throughout the season.

5. Hand Me Downs
Although it might not seem ideal to your child, hand me downs are a great way to ensure your child can stay on the squad when money is tight. If you had an older child that was in cheerleading then this is idea. Make sure to tailor the old uniform to your child’s needs while also ensuring it suits the seasons standards. With the uniform out of the way you can knock one big expense out of the season. If you child had specific squad shoes that will fit your child then this is all the better. Usually, squads won’t care what your child wears to practice, so save the specific shoes for game day in order to keep their quality intact. Megaphones, pom poms and other cheer accessories are easy to restore for newer cheerleaders as well. If you don’t have children that were previously in cheerleading then you might want to ask other family members or friends if they have anything that could help your student ease into the squad without breaking the budget.

6. Sew Your Own Uniform
Most cheerleading uniform follow one basic pattern, so if you enjoy sewing then creating your child’s uniform might be the cheapest way to let your child enjoy the cheerleading squad. If you aren’t entirely sure about the requirements for the uniform then talk to the coach and ask to see an example of the uniform required. This will allow you to know the correct colors, fabrics, embroidery and other musts for the uniform. Once you have all of the supplies it shouldn’t be hard to recreate the required suit. It will also mean your child is getting a uniform that fits amazingly because it was just entirely for the student. Creating your own uniform also makes alterations later on a whole lot easier. You never know, after you send your student out in the uniform you may have orders from the entire squad for a personalized uniforms, which means you might actually make some money to put towards the season so the budget can relax a little more.

7. Yard Sales
Chances are, if you live in a small community then there’s going to be lots of cheerleading items in the yard sales. Make a point to check out any new sales whenever you can. People usually hold them on weekends, so make a day out of surfing the different yard sales. Sometimes you might be lucky enough to everything your student could possibly need after shopping a few yard sales. You might have to venture to other communities in order to find some of the items though, so make sure look online for notices before you head out. This will help you save on fueling cost and will save time since you’ll know where you need to go. You may also talk to the sale holders about battering for the cheerleading gear, which will help save even more money.

8. Compete
If your on a squad then try your hardest to get into some competitions. There’s a lot around the country, so chances are you’ll be able to find some awesome competitions in your local area. If your team is really good then you may even go on to state or national competitions, so keep up the good work and push yourself to advance when possible. Typically, entry fees aren’t too expensive for competitions and the price of winning will actually help fund some of your trips as well as the upkeep of your squad. If you’re not sure where to start then take to the internet and do a little research on the competitions in your area. Once you’ve competed the first time you’ll love the way it feels to show off your stuff. You may even want to start researching some of your own choreography moves to make your cheers all the more fun.

9. Talk to Your School
When it comes to cheerleading, the money can become too much for tight budgets. However, luckily there’s lots of support available through schools if you let them know if you’re struggling with the cost. Many schools will allot money for grants and scholarships to students who desire to be a part of the team but don’t have the money to do so. You may have to fill out a few forms based on income and need, but after that the school should help support many of the needed items. If your school is using cheerleading as an athletics program then chances are the uniform and other accessories will already be supplied for your student. Thus, most of the worry will be lifted from your budget. If you’re still having problems getting your student to games then talk to the coach. A lot of the time the coach will pick up students that need a ride or arrange a pick up with another student’s parents. So, stop stressing and simply ask when you need a little help.

10. Re-Use Last Year’s Items
If your students a veteran the cheerleading then don’t stress about the small stuff. At the end of the season make sure to pack away all the cheerleading supplies somewhere safe. When its time to start a new season then unpack everything and have your student try it all on. If the uniform doesn’t fit then work to make the needed alterations. The only item that might need to be replaced is the shoes, but if your child hasn’t grown much then this shouldn’t be an issue at all. If, perhaps, the colors for the pom poms or megaphone has changed then this is typically an easy fix. The megaphone can be painted with recycled paints to suit your teams needs. While, the pom pom strands can be replaced with cheap streamers of the proper colors. However, this item tends to be a bit cheaper just to repurchase. Spanks are another item that shouldn’t need replacing for the new season, just make sure there are no holes in the items. If you make sure everything is cleaned and stored properly during the off season you should be good to go for next year though.

Cheerleading can be a great adventure for your student, so don’t let the opportunity pass by because of the lack of funds. With these ten tips you’ll be able to save a whole lot of money on items that may normally cost a small fortune. With all of the savings you should be able to enjoy more games and cheer your child on throughout the seasons.

With August already here it might be time to consider shopping around for this school year. If your child is required to wear school uniforms you may be looking at spending quite a bit of money to satisfy your child’s needs for school. There’s a lot of ways to avoid some of the pricing behind school uniform shopping, but if you aren’t sure how to beat the price tag then these ten tips are for you. With a little know how and a lot of patience your child should be able to return to school looking great while meeting all the uniform requirements. With these ten tips on your side you’ll never have to stress over back to school shopping again, which will leave you a little extra cash for some much needed last minute vacation time!

1. Department Shopping
Ordering uniforms from your school or even a specialized uniform store can be a huge mistake. These items usually will cost a whole lot more and won’t do you any favors when it comes to allowing the children to try on clothes. Instead, get a list of the items needed for the uniforms. Usually, the clothing isn’t so specific that it has to be specially ordered. This will allow you to get the majority of the items at department stores, which will have what you needed at a significantly better price. If your area predominately has schools that require uniforms then chances are the department stores will have a special section just for your schools needs. This will save you time, money and will ensure that the clothing you do purchase actually fits your child. You won’t have to worry about shipping costs or other hidden fees either. Even if you do require some special items, the clothing you purchase from the department stores will cut down on the final price. Of course, you may be able to get away with having some of your clothes embroidered with the school’s logo for fairly cheap.

2. Out of Season Shopping
When it comes to shopping for uniforms, you’ll probably get the best deals if you don’t shop during the back to school season. Although there’s many sales during this time, the prices of uniforms will actually significantly drop as the time passes. One of the best times to grab school clothing is towards the end of the school year. During this time stores will try to get rid of most of their stock for the summer months, so a lot of the clothing will go on clearance. If your student goes to school year round then consider shopping seasonal clothing on the off season. For instance, during the winter semesters you might want to stock up on shorts, skirts and short sleeve tops while during the summer pants, cardigans and other long sleeve tops are a great buy. When you shop like this you should consider how much your child might grow though, as this will help you choose an appropriate size.

3. Clearance
A lot of schools operate under a polo and trouser requirement which will make it even easier for you to find cheaper clothing for your children. Usually polos of all colors and trousers are pretty popular items on the clearance rack in many stores. Depending on your schools chosen colors you should be able to find a wide range of clothing for less than $100. If you’re not having a lot of luck locally then try to find stores online that sell these items. Since the clothing is fairly common you should be able to find them on sale at popular discount stores and popular stores you would frequent for your own casual or dress attire. If you’re lucky you may even find some of the items for less than $3 which will make them all the more worth wild if you have to get them engraved as this will only put your child’s uniform at less than $10 for a basic look!

4. Pick Dark Colors
Most schools will offer a couple of different colors to choose from when it comes to uniform shopping. If you can, try to purchase the darker color as much as possible. Although light colors are nicer on warmer days, they are also a lot easier to ruin, especially when it comes to kids. With a darker option your kid’s uniform will stay in regulations for a lot longer. Although it is possible to stain darker clothes it is a lot easier to mask these accidents than with a top that is white. The same can be said for pants. A black trouser is much easier to care for than a pair of khakis. With darker colors you’ll have to look for a replacement a whole lot less. If you’re worried about your washer fading the color then invest in color safe bleach and other care products designed to keep darker clothes looking new for longer.

5. Hand Me Downs
It doesn’t matter if you’re shopping uniforms or regular clothing, hand me downs is a key to saving a whole lot of money. However, when it comes to uniforms you may enjoy these savings a whole lot more. Chances are your school doesn’t change uniforms often which makes it even easier for you to hang on to your older children’s clothing. If your children change clothes when they come home from school then their school uniforms are probably going to look in top shape at the end of the year. This will allow you to only purchase fillers for your younger children, which is a huge relief on back to school costs. Of course, if you have family or friends with older children then you may not have to purchase an entirely new wardrobe for your older children either. Just make sure to complete any alterations needed before school starts and you’ll be able to worry a whole lot less about what your children are going to wear to school this year.

6. Community Group
If you don’t already have a community group you may want to look into starting one. This group will allow everyone in the school district to come together and exchange uniforms. Your school should allow you to organize one of these meetings in your gym at no cost, but make sure to call around and make arrangements before hand. This group will allow people from the school to meet one another. People can bring their children’s old uniforms and exchange them for larger sizes or simply donate them so other children can make use of them. These communities are great to encourage support within the community and may even lead to some important meetings that allow people to organize after school programs as well as carpools and other ways to save money.

7. Buy One Size Larger
Kids grow pretty fast, which is why so many parents end up buying school clothes throughout the year. In order to avoid some major spending on your part you may want to consider buying your children one size larger than what actually fits them. This will allow kids plenty of room to grow during the school year without forcing you to have to buy something new every few months. Don’t worry about the pants being too large as most uniforms require a belt anyway and you can easily add a tuck to make the legs a little more fitting. One important item to buy a little bigger is shoes. Although it might seem odd to buy shoes that don’t fit you’ll be glad you did when your child doesn’t complain about feet pains after the first month of school. Shoes are usually more expensive too, so the extra growing room is important. If there’s an issue with size then have your child wear thicker socks until the growth spurt occurs.

8. Order Bulk
Ordering in bulk can be a pretty powerful thing when it comes to your budget. Luckily, when it comes to school uniforms its pretty easy to shop in bulk. A lot of stores with often sell a three to five pack of polo shirts that cost a whole lot less than you’d pay for 2 shirts off of the rack. Try searching sales on popular brand sites to see what you discover. A lot of stores will often offer buy 2 get 1 free sales when it comes to trousers. These sales are especially popular during the back to school months. You should also be able to find large packages of socks, underwear and under shirts that will keep your family stocked up for quite some time. These items are always a must for new school semesters, but the bulk buys will allow you to stretch your clothing further so you don’t have to do as much shopping after your initial school purchases.

9. Buy What You Need
Just because your kids will be wearing uniforms during the school week doesn’t mean you have to fill their closets with the attire. Instead, consider what your kids are going to need to get by for the week. Typically, a couple pair of pants or skirts and five shirts will be plenty for a typical week of school. Once the week is over grab the laundry and prep for the next week of school. If you don’t want to worry about having that many uniforms then buy enough to keep the kids going until the middle of the week. Since the uniforms are basically the same there won’t be any judgment amongst peers and you won’t have to waste money on clothes they don’t even really like. Buying less will also be less of a burden when it comes to the kids outgrowing the clothes. With a light wardrobe you can easily save up money to replace what you need while adding a couple extra sets of clothes as time passes.

10. Look for Grants
Although most schools will put parents in charge of clothing their children up to standards, most will also offer a little help for parents that need it. If you’re concerned about your students clothing then make an appointment to talk to the principal or counselor at the school. If you explain the situation and fill out some paper work then the school may be able to provide your child with some clothing. Sometimes, the school will even have donated clothes that your child can use for the upcoming school year. If the school doesn’t have the means to help you then they should know of various organizations that can help. These places are usually charity groups and may require a little time to process you, so don’t wait too long to get started. If the school doesn’t have other options they may be able to find you a sponsor that will help clothe your child. Either way, you should be able to get a couple items for your child’s school year without having to stress too much about letting bills go.

School uniforms can be a pretty big hassle for both parents and students. From the attitudes of trying the items on to the prices that leave you feeling sick to your stomach, back to school uniform shopping isn’t on anyone’s summer vacation to do list. With these ten tips you should be able to stress a little less about shopping and spending money, which will make the tedious task a little more bearable!

College is a great time to explore yourself and learn new things about the world. Thus, studying abroad is one of the best ways to get out there and find yourself without spending too much money. A lot of people won’t even consider studying abroad because they believe it might be too much money or perhaps it might be a little too intimidating. This isn’t the case though! Sure, there’s a lot of things you may need to purchase when you go abroad, but with a few easy to follow steps you may end up spending less on your time abroad then you would at your actual college. These ten tips will work to help you find a happy balance between your goals of studying abroad and your financial restrictions. Now, you can actually plan out the trip of a lifetime and embrace something new!

1. Go Through Your College
If you’re already in a college then you’ve made a step in the right direction without even knowing it! Most colleges will have a study abroad section. Many people will bypass this office in the hall thinking it is meant for students that are exchange students within the school. Although this is true it is also there to help students travel abroad. Depending on your college, there is a good chance the school has plans made out with other schools from around the world. This will give you an opportunity to connect to so many different countries that you might spend a full semester deciding where you want to go. If your school doesn’t have an abroad program they will have the resources to connect you with an out of school program, like the U.S.A.C. (University Studies Abroad Consortium). These types of programs will allow you to easily transfer into an abroad school while still receiving financial aid and loads like were you still in your school. These programs will also providing you housing and support during your time abroad.

2. Look for Grants
With the price of college so high a lot of students rely on grants to help them pay for college. While you’re studying abroad you should be able to qualify for many of the grants that you get in your basic financial aid kit. Of course, if you’re willing to look a bit harder there should be even more grants for you to help fund your time abroad. In fact, the federal government actually offers a grant specifically for college students seeking financial help while abroad. The grant has very little requirement, but does have a tendency to run out of funds so make sure to apply as soon as you know you’re going to be going abroad. There’s a bit of paperwork with this grant, but if you sign up in time you’ll be a little less stressed out when paying your tuition bills. There’s a lot of other grants available that could help you find some financial relief, but they take a bit of looking. If you’re unsure of the steps you need to be taking then make sure to talk to your financial counselor.

3. Know Your Currency
Before you choose a place to spend your next semester you may want to consider the currency difference. This does go up and down a lot, but with a little monitoring you should have a pretty good idea as to what the currency rate might be while you’re abroad. Some countries the dollar will be worth a lot more, which is where you’ll end up spending less money. However, if you travel to Great Britain, Europe or a select number of other countries you could be paying double for everything you buy. This will really make you think twice about the little things while you’re abroad, so be careful because no one wants to spend $3 on a candy bar, right? If this is a major concern for you try to concentrate on countries that have a rate that is almost equal or less than the value of the dollar. You’ll have more freedom this way and won’t have to feel guilty for your junk good cravings.

4. Global ATM Alliance
When you go abroad there’s a good chance your bank is going to charge you a heavier fee for taking out money. You may even be charged a little more for using your credit or debit card while you’re abroad. These fees can add up so fast your head will be spinning before you even hit mid terms. Instead of blindly going into the country and using the card you should try to join the Global ATM Alliance. This service will make a deal with your bank or direct you to a bank that will stop the ATM charges. This will allow you to pull out money while you’re abroad without having to spend an extra $5 to $10 every time you run out of cash. With the lack of fees in your life you should be able to live more freely and enjoy some of the culture around you.

5. Dine In
Although there’s a whole lot of great cultural food for you to experience, it might be wise to dine in as much as you possibly can. Yes, you’re going to be busy with your school work, making new friends and seeing new things, but eating how can get you in just as much trouble as it would at home. When you get to your destination you should ask around to find out where locals pick up fresh fruits and vegetables. These are easy on the go meals and can create tasty meals when you’re entertaining friends. Not to mention, eating fresh while you’re abroad will keep you healthier. You should also ask where the best place to shop for groceries is. Just like in your home town there should be a few choices, but one store usually stands out when it comes to savings. When you find your best destination for shopping you should try to buy generic or store brand products as much as possible. This will still give you a chance to shop for local items, but will keep spending to a minimum. Once you make friends with some locals invite them over so they can show you how to create some of their favorite foods. Of course, this doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t eat out at all while you’re abroad. Every once in awhile splurge as it will actually help you save money in the long run. It will also give you a taste of the culture so you can feel inspired to whip up some of your new favorite foods.

6. Enjoy Happy Hour
One of the hardest things for a lot of college students to cut back on is drinking. This is a big part of college life and a huge cultural aspect of many cultures. Before you go out drinking make sure you know the proper age, as you don’t want to get in trouble with the other country’s laws. Although you should avoid excessive drinking for your general health and budget, there is a time and a place to let loose and have some fun with your new friends. If you’re planning on going out then try to plan around happy hour. Most places with have these times posted up so you won’t have to go to great lengths to find out when you can get cheaper drinks and food. In some countries you may even get free appetizers when you go drinking, so this could easily help cut the costs of a meal. You might also want to consider buying pitchers of beer with friends. This will allow everyone to chip in while saving the whole group a bit of money.

7. Transit Pass
When you go abroad you might find yourself in a whole new world when in comes to transit. In a country that relies heavily on cars, it might seem frightening to have to figure out how to get from point A to point B using trains, trollies and buses. In most countries you will find very good public transportation though, so don’t stress out as it won’t take long to get the hang of things. When you get to your country you should buy a transit pass as soon as possible. This will help cut the cost of daily traveling. Usually you can get a pass for a very good deal that could even last your full semester. Make sure you show your student I.D. Card too as this will ensure you’ll get a discount. A lot of students might be tempted to rent a car during the duration of the trip, but it is important to step into the culture of the country you’re in and enjoy their way of doing things. It will also save you a lot of money and teach you something new when you decide to use transit.

8. Host Family
If its your first time away from home or you’re just feeling a little insecure about going abroad then you might want to consider getting a host family. This will allow you to stay in a home with a family rather than living on your own in a dorm. These families will typically provide you with a room and will charge you room and board. Generally this cost doesn’t compare to living on your own and will also ensure you have food, water and all of the basics needed to keep up with your studies. Staying with a host family with submerge you in the culture faster and may even help you find a second family to visit with as the years pass.

9. International Student I.D.
If there’s one card you should always keep on you when you’re abroad its this special international identification card. This card not only allows people to know who you are, in case of an emergency, but it will unlock a world of discounts for you. You may be surprised as to all of the places that recognize this card. From shopping for groceries to taking in a movie, you will be able to enjoy plenty of freebies and discounts that will help your finances and keep you happy while you’re away from home. This card doesn’t cost more than $20, but some programs will actually offer it to your for free. Make sure you ask everywhere you visit if they accept your card as it can significantly cut travel costs as well as other major expenses you’ll have to bear while abroad.

10. Consider tuition costs
It seems like tuition costs are always rising in this country, which is a major problem for most students. Although prices are on the increase in this country, they are still lower or moderate in other countries. This might be a huge factor to look at before you go abroad. Countries who offer lower tuition rates, even for exchange students might help save you money on your actual degree. While you’re paying the cost of the foreign country’s tuition you’re still gathering credits that will help you graduate from your more expensive home college. If at all possible, try to choose courses that will transfer nicely to your home college. This will cut out a lot of the must have courses for your degree at a price that won’t make your graduation date as bittersweet. You may find, by the end of your trip, that studying abroad actually saved you some money.

The desire to travel is something a lot of people never get the chance to act on. By studying abroad you’ll be able to broaden your education while gaining some valuable life experiences in the meantime. No matter what you do or where you go, this experience will leave you with a lifetime of memories.