almost back to school for Zachary

[Sara Noel]

and I'm already getting twitchy on all the stuff I need to do. All in all, it's not all that much but I still need to budget things in.

He needs school clothes, new fall and winter jacket this year, new umbrella, new rain boots, snow boots, and they have this shoe requirement at his school. <---that sounds funny. lol
Basically, they require separate sneakers for class and gym. I've heard some people say that is standard and others say it's strange.

I need to check if his snow pants still fit and he'll need a new hat and gloves too. Yes. I know I'm looking pretty far ahead to winter, but these things add up quickly and the holidays start rolling around and birthdays and before I know it..it's crunch time with money and things needed.

Made his dr appt because he needs one more shot before school. Heck, I'm already thinking about budgeting in school pictures.

I don't know how you guys do it with older kids and their long lists of school supplies or those with kids heading to college.

We have him in a kindergarten program that costs money and just the thought of adding that into the budget too is making me feel pressure.

I've been looking at preschools for Ally and some are so expensive it makes me ill. She'll just be turning 3 this November, so I'm considering waiting until next year for preschool and just joining a local playgroup. I may do a preschool co-op. I'll have to see.

[Mom23boys]

I don't blame you for looking ahead. I do the same thing. I don't like the unexpected. I prefer to be prepared.

It isn't easy buying for 3 different children. They all have different needs and it all adds up. Tack on that, the school pictures, athletic activities they participate in at school, lunches, etc.

This year we will be purchasing senior pictures, a class ring, graduation announcements, and a cap and gown for graduation. I want to add that into the budget.

I shop early and stock up on school supplies I know they will need year after year. It saves money and time.

[SHOPGIRL]

Sara,

Kids learn the most from 0-5 years old. So, a preschool can be super important for children. The extra money may be worth spending on a preschool depending on how good it is. I think it also depends on how much time parents spend at home working with their kids. In some school districts, they have all day kindergarten. In my mom's district, they have all day kindergarten and by the end of the year they are reading now. If it was me, I'd find a way to send her to preschool, especially if its a good one.