Back-to-School (not Back-to-Broke)
Updated: Aug 7
Summer is finally here! We’re basking in the sunshine, enjoying long summer nights, and soaking up time outside with our kids. Somewhere in the back of our single mom brains, there’s that slight niggle reminding us that back-to-school season is creeping up. Another louder part of our brain really just wants to ignore it and head to the pool.
The good news? We can absolutely do both!
By turning back-to-school prep into a fun activity with the kids, you can crush the stress and save some serious cash at the same time. Here is how to tackle the checklist without breaking the bank, so when September arrives all too quickly, your kids will be ready and your bank account will thank you.
Scavenger Hunt
Get the kids together, set a timer for 20 minutes, and turn “shopping your house” into a game. Send them on an epic scavenger hunt across the living room, bedrooms, and junk drawers to round up forgotten treasures. You'll be amazed at how much you already own!
Challenge them to track down:
Backpacks (Empty them out)
School & Art Supplies (Pencils, markers, rulers, and scissors)
Tech Gear (Calculators and headphones)
Classroom Extras (Unopened boxes of tissues, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizer)
Once the timer goes off, test the pens, sharpen the pencils, and cross these items right off your official school supply list before you buy a single thing.
Fashion Show
Have your kids pile all their clothes, jackets, winter wear, shoes, and boots onto their beds and crank up some dance music. It’s time for a fashion show! Have them try everything on and strut their stuff down the hallway. It keeps them entertained while you assess what actually fits.
As they model each outfit, help them sort the clothes into three distinct piles:
Keep: If it still fits and they love it, it stays in the closet.
Donate: If it’s too small but still in okay shape, set it aside to donate to a local charity or a friend with younger kids.
Sell: If it’s too small but still in great condition (or brand new with tags), these are your golden tickets.
Making the Money
Take that Sell pile from the Fashion Show to a local kids' consignment shop like Once Upon a Child or Plato’s Closet. You can trade those outgrown clothes for cash or store credit to buy this year's wardrobe. It’s an easy way to ensure your bank account stays happy, which is almost as happy as you'll be when school is finally back in session.
Swapping with Friends
Take that Donate pile from the Fashion Show and plan a get-together with friends. Let the kids play while the moms get swapping. You can swap school supplies, clothes, shoes, and even winter clothes. Everyone walks away with goodies, and you turn a chore into a fun afternoon with your community!
Community Freebies
Late July and early August are when most community organizations open registration for free school supplies and backpacks. Look up local non-profits, churches, or school districts to get registered. Many areas pair these supply giveaways with a back-to-school event featuring free food and outdoor games, making it a fun afternoon out that completely eliminates a major expense.
Check these out!
Shopping the Sales
By now, the list of what you actually need to buy should be quite small! Unleash your savvy shopping skills on those remaining items. Check online to spot the best weekly deals, stack your savings with digital coupons, and use apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, or Fetch for cashback rewards.
Don’t forget to go secondhand! Once Upon a Child, Goodwill, Plato’s Closet, and The Salvation Army are treasure troves of kids' clothing and supplies.
Most importantly, stick to your list. Your kids have already had an amazing summer with their fabulous mother, and they will have an equally amazing school year without all the extra stuff.
You’ve got this, mom! You’re smart. You’re capable. You are going to make sure your kids have everything they need for a great year, all while keeping your bank account incredibly happy. Now go enjoy that pool day!
P.S. Check out our Resources page for more savings!
Thanks for this fun and practical guide! I really needed those affirmations at the end, too. I appreciate your detailed advice, I feel like I’m on track now!