If you’re like me, I had thoughts of chilling my favorite beverage in preparation for the first day of school when my girls were younger. 😉 I was also thinking about all the money I’d have to spend getting my kiddos ready. Back-to-school shopping is so much more than buying pencils, notebooks and rulers. It’s the lunch bag, backpack, clothes, and equipment for extracurricular activities where kids often have strong opinions about what’s “in style” and acceptable. The costs can quickly add up.

While I don’t enjoy the money spending part of this season, I do value the time I spend shopping with my daughters. And I can always look forward to them schooling me on what’s cool. As you brace for back-to-school shopping, I encourage you to get your children involved — beyond just picking out the latest trendy digs!

Bond with your child to lay the groundwork

I recently read an article that highlighted how most parents think of back-to-school shopping as a way to connect with their kids. In the face of inflation and busy military life, my hope is to shift this must-do to-do into a bonding and teaching moment.

Once your kids get the shopping list for school supplies, it’s a perfect opportunity to use this real-world situation to demonstrate budgeting. Inventory any remaining items from last year so you don’t buy duplicates. Go on an adventure in the closet to find items that might pass muster again this year. Get them involved with making shopping lists and a spending plan.

Find ways to save with your MilKid

Are your kids just as internet savvy as you, if not more? Leverage their skills and teach your MilKid how to shop for deals. Show them how you comparison shop online, look for sales and compare prices to your local Exchange. Remind them to ask if retailers offer a military discount and check out these other cost-saving tips.

Team up with your child to shop like a boss

Are you ready for it? Of course you are —  it’s time to shop. Before you head out, double check that detailed list and set a budget together with your child. This helps teach discipline and how to make smart purchasing choices. Encourage them to compare prices, look for deals and prioritize their needs — just as you do. These learning opportunities might help them grow a deeper appreciation for the items you purchase together. And who knows, maybe last year’s backpack will survive this school year — and maybe even next year, too!

Need additional assistance this season? The service relief societies are a resource ready to help.

Once you are on a roll, we have an entire section of our site dedicated to helping you teach your children about money. Check it out — we have fun videos and activities to reach children ages 3-19.

Happy shopping and on that first day back to school, kick your feet up and feel good about how you prepared and set your child(ren) — and wallet — up for success. We always welcome your comments. Please share a tip below for another MilSpouse or provide us feedback.

Cheers to a great school year!

Mandi Moynihan is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional who has been with MilSpouse Money Mission since its inception. She also served in the Army and is the spouse of a retired service member.

MilSpouse Money Mission® is a Department of Defense resource that offers FREE personal financial education specifically geared toward military spouses. There is a Money Ready guide for various stages of financial life, a MilLife Milestones section to help you through the big moments in your military journey, a blog, spouse videos, quizzes, calculators and more!