As the new school year approaches, my son expressed a desire to visit the mall for our back-to-school shopping instead of sticking to our usual routine of discount stores and outlets. After I explained that we have two other children who also need clothes, supplies, and backpacks, he was understandably disappointed.
Here’s my perspective: while kids do require food, shelter, water, and clothes, I’m not about to splurge on jeans that cost more than my utility bill, only to watch them outgrow them in a few months. If they want those pricey sneakers that cost as much as a set of tires, they can work for it. They’re teenagers, after all, and instead of spending their allowance on snacks and the latest gadgets, they can save up for those expensive items.
I could echo what my father used to say: “School isn’t a fashion show.” But honestly, that just sounds tedious, and I remember feeling like it was a fashion show back then—and it still feels like one now. Whether the emphasis on stylish clothing is more for the kids or the parents is debatable, but I understand that looking good is important to them. My bargain hunting skills are top-notch, yet they often don’t seem to appreciate my efforts.
I have no qualms about sending them off in off-brand clothes or last year’s clearance finds. As long as the clothing is comfortable, warm, and cute, I know they’ll be just fine. If they’re wearing a button-up from a discount store instead of a high-end brand, it won’t hold them back. Plus, it teaches them to appreciate what they have.
Kids are messy, and as they grow, they will inevitably spill things, tear their jeans, and get dirt all over their clothes. If they want to ruin a nice pair of jeans, let it be a less expensive pair. They use their shirts as napkins, tissues, and even as makeshift pockets for rocks and sticks. If they think they need designer clothes to fit in, they’ll have to earn the money for them.
I’m not concerned with ensuring they have the latest trends or comparing their wardrobe to their friends’. Honestly, I’m exhausted even thinking about it. The main reason I’m not splurging on school clothes is that kids simply don’t need such extravagant items at a young age. I have more pressing expenses, like braces, household essentials, and perhaps a few stress-relief candles for when they complain about needing $200 jeans.
So, I’ll take my somewhat deprived kids to all the discount stores and revel in the savings. They can cringe all they want, but I’m doing them a favor by teaching them to value what they have and keeping the luxuries at bay for a little while longer.
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In summary, I’m focusing on practicality rather than extravagance when it comes to school clothes. Kids need to learn the value of money and what it means to appreciate what they have, and I’d rather invest in what truly matters.