Back-to-School Clothes

Ah, summer time! Splashing in pools, chasing fireflies, eating Popsicles. Life is carefree and easy. But before you know it'll be time to start gathering school supplies  and getting your children ready for their next year of school. This guide aims to make this time of transition easier for your family. Enjoy these last precious weeks of summer, knowing that this checklist will make your life easier.

Getting Started

1. Contact your school to find out if their is a dress code. Things may have changed over the summer and it's best to be prepared before you head out to the mall or get online.
2. Make a list of all the items your child will need in the upcoming year. Include clothes for gym classes and any other special activities your child may be participating in (soccer, cheerleading, band, etc.).
3. Before you whip out the credit card, give last years clothes a review. See the list below for ideas on cleaning and organizing your children's clothing closet.
4. Once you are sure you have the list prepared, shop away knowing that you are making smart purchases.
5. Make the Kids Clothing page your first shopping destination.

Getting Organized

One afternoon when the kids are at the movies with friends or on a playdate, set aside time to evaluate the closet.  Bring three bags or plastic storage containers  with you. Mark the containers: Give: These clothes are in good shape but no longer fit your child. You can give them to charity or sell on them on Craigslist or eBay --it's your choice. Keep: Clothes that fit and are clean and presentable. You may also want to keep clothes that are in good condition that may fit a younger sibling or relative. Toss: if the clothes are stained, torn or otherwise damaged, add them to the rag pile for cleaning or toss them with the trash. For more tips on getting organized visit 123sortit.com for ideas to keep the kids' rooms clean and clutter free.

Fall Fashion Trends

Girls: Pleated skirts  and peasant tops  are a great way to transition into fall. Animal prints  continue to be popular. Leggings  worn under skirts keep legs warm as days get chilly. Boys: Argyle sweater vests  and horizontal striped polo shirts  layered under long-sleeve tee are cool. Skate boarding  inspired clothes are popular with logos prominently displayed. These styles tend to be baggy and loose. Unisex: World Cup mania is going strong: Look for soccer jerseys  and logo gear from Adidas,  Puma  and Nike.  Camouflage  and cargos  are still cool.

School Uniforms

Many schools (both public and private) have adopted school uniforms to make life easier on parents and kids.  Uniforms remove clothing competition for the school yard and allow kids to focus on more important things like algebra, American history and recess! The Internet is great resource for purchasing school uniforms. Popular Spots for School Uniforms: All Hearts Kids: Carries Dickies  and French Toast uniforms  at discounted prices and a wide variety of sizes. Dickies: Complete Web site even offers the pluses of uniforms. Cookie's: Online home for the world’s largest kids department store. French Toast: Express shopping is available for enrolled schools. Lands End: Offers a fund raising program for schools in conjunction with shopping for uniforms. Also offers hemming free of charge. JC Penny: Excellent size range. Uniforms feature Izod. Sears: Big selection of sizes and styles like pleated shorts,  polo shirts  and dress pants.

Popular Kids' Brands

• The Children's Place: Colorful and affordable. An easy spot to coordinate outfits. Geared towards younger kids.
• J Crew: Just introduced their new kids line..."clothes you love only smaller."
• Nordstrom: Great assortment of brands.
• Target: Prices can't be beat and the clothes are trendy to boot.

Shopping Advice

This can be an overwhelming experience for your kids, so sit down with them prior to beginning your shopping so there aren't any surprises.

• Involve your kids in making the shopping list.
• Explain the school dress code so they don't select inappropriate clothes.
• Lay out the budget. Sure this is a lofty concept for them, but it's never too early to encourage your children to be responsible with their money.
• Get them involved. As a parent you are responsible for selecting the style, then give your children a choice when it comes to things like color or prints.
• For older kids and teens allow them to search for items on the Internet and then make a presentation on their wardrobe and the total cost (Give them a budget and shopping list). Then you can make the final decisions.
• Remember:
• You are in control, not the kids.
• Don't shop with your kids when they are tired or hungry.
• Don't give into peer pressure. As a parent you set the rules for what your kids wear -- not their friends or MTV.
• For more help visit The Natural Child Project for 10 tips to make shopping more pleasurable.

Budget Friendly Ideas

• Check out your local children's resale shop.
• Organize a clothing swap with other parents at your school.
• Use online resources like eBay and Craigslist for gently worn clothing.
• For more tips on staying on a budget when Back to School shopping read About.com's article.

Additional Back to School Items
School Supplies	Sneakers	Backpacks	Computers

External Links

• Yahoo: offers a complete list of EVERYTHING your child may possibly need (and many items they'll never need).
• CNN: has a list of budget friendly ideas for keeping your kids fashionable.
• California parents submitted their best back-to-school advice on the Great Schools' Web site.