Lessons in cost-saving: How to cut down on back-to-school expenses
Time is ticking for parents to prepare their children for the academic year ahead. This often comes with a long shopping list. School uniforms, sports kits and shoes might be outgrown and need replacing. Yet parents are often encouraged to buy everything new, from pencil cases to water bottles, so costs quickly add up. “The start of the school year can be a really stressful time for families,”…
Parents face a daunting back-to-school shopping list, with costs quickly adding up for uniforms, sports gear and daily supplies. Megan Lawler, a mother of three and founder of Dubai Mums Meet, notes that the start of the school year can be stressful for families, adding to existing cost-of-living pressures. A 2024 survey by Cigna Healthcare found that 45% of UAE respondents cited the cost of living as a leading cause of stress.
The August school shopping month is particularly harsh, with 48% of UK parents spending over £100 (Dh501, $136) on new school items, according to a YouGov poll. Retailers capitalize on this trend with dedicated displays and trendy recommendations, creating additional pressure for parents. Budgeting expert Caz Mooney advises parents to consider whether they truly need an item right away, as many schools provide year-long supply lists.
Buying second-hand has become more socially acceptable in the UAE, with schools offering donation options and online platforms like Vinted and Facebook Marketplace filled with free or discounted items. This shift in attitude reflects younger generations' growing awareness of sustainability and financial prudence. Involving children in donating and mending items can foster empathy, gratitude and a deeper understanding of what constitutes a "need" versus a "want."
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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