Tips for Parents: Reduce Stress of Back-to-School Shopping 07/20/01

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Trying on clothes probably isn’t on most kids’ list of favorite things to do, but it is an essential part of shopping for back-to-school or other new clothing, said Marla Day, Kansas State University Research and Extension associate clothing specialist.

"Cost is one issue – children’s clothes and shoes are costly. Growing children may need replacements in a matter of weeks or months; middle or high school students’ clothing may cost as much – or more – than parents’ clothing. Parents and children also may not always agree on what to buy," Day said.

There are, however, ways to simplify the process. The clothing specialist offered these tips:

Ask the child to try on clothes, and make a list of still-usable items. Sort clothing – some may still fit, but be stained or out of style and no longer suitable for school wear.

Establish a separate budget for each child, but recognize that not all children may require the same expenditures. For example, an older child is likely to need a greater share of the funds available because their clothing is more expensive. Older children also may need special clothing for school activities (like a vocal group) and social events. A child who is growing rapidly is likely to require a greater expenditure because clothing will need to be replaced when it’s outgrown.

"[Each child’s] needs influence spending, but it’s also important for each child to feel that their needs have been considered and met," Day said.

Spending can sometimes be spread out – plan to buy some items after school has started. Children may be more comfortable in shorts or other lighter weight summer clothes during late August and early September school days.

If the shoe fits...

Choosing children’s shoes can be a challenge for parents. There are, however, some guidelines that can simplify the process. Use these tips:

* Feet swell during the day. Plan to shop for shoes later in the day.

* Make sure the child is wearing clean socks, or take a pair with you.

* Try on both shoes.

* Ask the child to stand still. Place your thumb at the tip of the child’s big toe. There should be one-half to 3/4 inch from the toe to the tip of the shoe. Also, the tops of toes should not touch the top of the shoe. Check toe space in both shoes.

* Allow some wiggle room on width. Width should fit securely, but not tightly.

Marla Day, K-State Research and Extension

With a child that is growing rapidly, waiting even a few weeks to buy new clothes can make a difference in size, she said.

* Try to shop when the stores are least crowded. Take the inventory with you.

* Plan to shop for the most needed items (like shoes) and staples (like jeans or khaki slacks) first.

* Choose staples and separates that mix and match to add variety to children’s wardrobes; extend the life and wearability of the clothing; and possibly save money, the clothing specialist said.

Jeans are everyday staples. Khaki pants and skirts also are staples that can be dressed up or down. Separates can be particularly helpful for growing children, who may outgrow a top, but not the bottom, she said.

"Choosing clothes that offer growing room is recommended. Look for partial or full elastic waists, pants with cuffs that can be turned down to add length, or adjustable straps on a jumper," Day said.

Allowing growing room should not, however, compromise children’s safety. Parents are cautioned about allowing too much extra length in pants or shoes. Both can cause children to trip. Shoelaces and drawstrings that are too long and billowy sleeves also can catch in playground equipment and cause accidents.

As an example, if you plan to match a new top to a red skirt that still fits, take the skirt with you when you shop, Day said.

Check fit; growing room; fabric quality; workmanship (Are the pant legs the same length? Hem even? Buttons sewn on tightly? Extra buttons included? Zipper work? Top-stitching neat and even?).

Parents with younger children also are advised to consider whether children can get dressed easily. Buttons at the back of the neck or zippers that don’t zip easily can make it difficult for children to dress themselves or go to the bathroom in a hurry, Day said.

It’s best to check garments before ever leaving the store, but we all occasionally miss flaws. Keep receipts in case returning clothing is necessary, she said.

Asking a child to help track their expenses can help them develop a greater appreciation for what things cost, Day said.

For example, let’s say that $100 is budgeted for clothing. If new shoes cost $40, and a child thinks he or she needs costly designer jeans instead of less expensive basics, there will be little money for anything else.

Helping children develop a better sense of costs can reduce the number of disagreements, Day said.

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.