The end of summer brings with it parents preparing to send their kids back to school, which can mean they are preparing for one of the most dreaded end of summer traditions...back to school shopping.
This year, do you and your kids a favor: Give your child a budgeted amount of money with a list of "must have's" they need to purchase for back to school and let them do the shopping! Try taking the following approach: "David, Joey, this year, I've decided to take a break from back to school shopping, but I believe I've found a good replacement: YOU! I was planning on spending $200 on your back to school supplies for you both, so this year, you will each be given $100 to budget and spend on the things you need for school. Usually in the past, if there was any money left from the budget, I allowed you each to get a few extra items you wanted. So guess what happens this year if you budget wisely and get all the required items and have money left over? You guessed it, feel free to spend the extra on those pair of shoes you've been eyeing or that ball cap you've been saving for! I know you will do just fine taking care of this. Now, would you prefer going shopping on Saturday or Sunday afternoon?"
Then sit back, relax and enjoy watching your kids grow in confidence, esteem, and most important, learn how to think for themselves!
