Parents battle back-to-school stress

Parents battle back-to-school stress The end of summer is an anxious time for most families, as parents and children prepare for the beginning of a new school year.

For parents, it is a mix of happy, sad and concern. “It is good that children are back in school learning again, instead of endless hours watching TV, playing games or surfing the internet,” said Hashem, a parent.

Many parents become sad and lonely when children return to school. Leaving their children after intimate bonding moments throughout summer can be stressful.

“It will be less work during the day when the kids are in school, but the house will be empty and too quiet. I will miss their laughter and noise,” said Nahla, a parent.

“I can’t help being worried, wanting to check on my children, Amna and Khalifa and make sure they are happy,” said Alia Al Shehi, a parent.

For most parents, back to school signals the start of a shopping spree and a huge expense that is getting harder and harder to meet every year.

Retailers, on the other hand, are eager to lure parents with kids in tow hit the stores to fill long lists of school necessities.

“Getting ready for school is a huge business for retailers with the increasing cost of supplies per child that includes books, stationery, clothes, and other items that the schools or kids deem necessities,” said a stationery shopowner who asked not to be named.

Consumer spending

“Shopping for school supplies is probably the second highest consumer spending period of the year [after Eid],” he added.

This puts a strain on the family budget.

So, here are some tips to help parents keep expenses under control:

n Shop early: Most people rush in the last few days of summer to buy clothes. Retailers know that patience runs low and frustration runs high. So parents end up buying in a rush and may not find the best deals. Shopping earlier gives more time to find great deals while spreading the expense over a longer period.

“Notebooks and pencils don’t spoil. I buy them at the end of the previous school year when they are greatly marked down,” Nahla added.

Avoid signature brands: Signature brands cost significantly higher than similar items of lesser known brands. “Devaughn, my six year old, will never know the difference between sneakers,” said Darine.

Shop alone if possible: Most parents say their children influence at least half of back-to-school purchases. Craft the list with them at home, but shop alone.

“I know my teenagers will pressure me into buying what they or their friends think is good; so, I avoid the pressure of spending more than what is needed,” said Nadine.

Buy used books: Used books are often sold at a fraction of the cost of new ones. “Let’s face it, new and used books have the same information so I buy books from my neighbours and friends,” said Helen, a mother of three teenagers.

Buy in bulk: “Supplies in general are much cheaper when bought in larger quantities, so my sister and I split the cost of some supplies,” said Hoda.