Fall is fast approaching. Moms and dads everywhere are anticipating bedtimes, bus stops, lunches and backpacks. The lazy days of summer will soon be exchanged for bell schedules and homework.

In anticipation of what’s around the corner, many parents find themselves at the mall, the store or calling on friends trolling for clothes and shoes to outfit their little ones. While this can be a daunting task for most – it doesn’t have to be. With a few techniques and incorporating some basics, your child will be set for the playground and the classroom in no time.

Procuring the proper attire for school does not have to be the headache it is reputed to be. Further, your wallet does not have to take the hit retailer would have you believe either. Armed with a few proven strategies, school clothes and shoes can be acquired and paid for with very little effort and output.

First determine your child’s style. Countless times families will spend way too much on clothes that their child is never going to wear in the first place. Rather than putting an item in their closet which will be outgrown and never worn, find three pieces which will be worn out. This will take a little investigating (and self control) but it’s well worth it.

As yourself, “is my child a Gap, Old Navy, or accessory (think Claire’s) type of dresser?” Better yet, ask them. Send them to the mall on a mission to investigate five stores and have them decide which store they would want to purchase three items from.

Next, make sure your child has the basics. A basic wardrobe would include one everyday shoe (typically a tennis shoe), one dress shoe (think the Holidays), one jacket or coat (season and climate specific), a button-down or collar shirt (again climate specific) and one nice pair of slacks for a boy and skirt for a girl. These five items are ones which should fit and be replaced when they are outgrown – NOT for back-to-school.

After the basics are covered, you need to supplement. That’s where season and occasion take precedence over wants. Back to school is the perfect time to get a pair of jeans that fit, get a few tops and find a pair of shoes other than the everyday pair. Beyond that, it’s extras.

Most of the basics and many of the supplements can be found second-hand. Whether you shop consignment shops, Goodwill or work out hand-me-downs with friends and neighbors, outfitting your child for school does not have to cost an arm and a leg. Creativity on acquiring your child’s wardrobe this year can be exciting. Finally, you can always let the grandparents and other relatives know what your child’s style is, what their size is and what they would like for the next birthday or celebration. Plus, with the aid of the internet, you can even send them a picture of the exact items. How’s that for making sure what your child receives is what your child both wants and will wear?

Any questions?