Back-to-School Costs: Practical Tips for Parents
The financial strain of back-to-school expenses can be overwhelming for parents. Planning ahead is crucial to managing these expenses effectively. Here are some tips from Genevieve Allen, founder of Club Engage, S.A’s largest provider of on-site aftercare and holiday care services:
1. Take a Holistic View of Your Child’s Needs
For working parents, school transport and hiring an au pair to care for your child can be a significant expense. While an au pair or daily transport service may seem like convenient options, it is essential to evaluate the overall value and benefits they provide. Instead of paying separately for transport and an au pair to supervise your child and assist with homework, enrolling in a quality aftercare programme like Club Engage can streamline these needs.
Not only does this provide peace of mind, but it also ensures your child is in a safe, structured environment tailored to their developmental needs through supervised educational and recreational activities. Some au pairs or caregivers may lack essential training, such as First Aid certification, and certain transport providers may not hold proper licenses like a PDP. Choosing a professional aftercare programme eliminates these concerns while offering a reliable, holistic solution.
2. Choose Flexible Payment Options
Consider programmes or services that provide flexible payment options. For example, Club Engage allows payments for aftercare and holiday care to be spread over 11 monthly instalments or paid through ad hoc bookings. While ad hoc bookings may appear convenient, they can be more expensive over time. To find the most cost-effective option, calculate the total number of days your child will need the service. This approach can also be applied to other extracurricular activities
3. Shop Smart for Supplies
- Avoid last-minute purchases, which often lead to overspending. Buy essentials like stationery and uniforms during sales or in bulk with other parents to save on costs. For reusable items, like backpacks or lunchboxes, opt for durable, high-quality products that last multiple years. Many schools have Thrift Shops where you can buy uniform that is affordable but still in a good condition.
- Support local charity shops which are a double benefit of supporting their worthy causes too.
4. Plan in Advance
- Although the holidays may seem distant, they are just around the corner. Signing up for packages that include holiday programmes can be very cost effective in the long run.
- The earlier you start budgeting for school expenses, the better. Begin by listing everything your child will need for the year, from uniforms to school supplies and care programmes. Break these costs into manageable monthly savings, so you aren’t caught off guard by large expenses at the start of the year.
By taking these steps, parents can reduce financial stress while ensuring their children have everything they need for a successful school year.
For more info, visit: www.clubengage.co.za
