Active Family Magazine | August 2022

Page 1

AUGUST 2022 HOTEL SPOTLIGHT Quail Lodge & Golf Club An Ideal Spontaneous Summer Getaway FAMILY Vacation A ROYAL WHEN YOUR CHILD IS ANXIOUS ABOUT BACK-TO-SCHOOL
2 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022 Volume 9 / Issue 98 22 6 [ PARENTING ] My Child is a Tattle-Tale! 4 When Your Child is Anxious 12 7 Back-to-School Shopping Hacks 22 [ TRAVEL ] HOTEL SPOTLIGHT: Quail Lodge & Golf Club 6 A Royal Family Vacation Victoria, BC Offers a Noble Family Experience 16 16

Publisher/Editor

Tracie Brown Vollgraf

Travel Editor

Elizabeth Kang ekang@activefamilymag.com

Local Life & Style for the East Bay Area

Social Media Manager and Sales Manager

Trista Cambra-Flanders

Design/Production

Teresa Agnew Craft

Active Family is published by TAG Marketing Group Mailing Address | P.O. Box 5158, Pleasanton, CA 94566

Contributing Authors

Dr. Laura Markham

Elizabeth Kang Dr. Meg Meeker, Md Andrea Woroch

Advertising Inquiries | 925.789.0709

Email Address | info@activefamilymag.com

Editor’s Note

August! You sneak up on us every year! Am I the only one who is frantically running around trying to get school shopping done (or at least started!)?

Just because summer break has ended, doesn’t mean the family fun has to! The weather for the next few months promises to be perfect, so why not fit in a few more vacations?! After all, we do have three-day weekend to look forward to! Hop on over to page 16 and discover British Columbia! We highly recommend adding this one to your bucket list. So much to do for the entire family and we’ve provided plenty of ideas when planning your trip!

Lots of anxiety as the little ones head back to school. Check out the article on page 12 which provides amazing advice on this very topic. Super applicable as we send the kids back to the classrooms.

Wishing everyone an easy transition over the next month!

Tracie Brown Vollgraf Editor

info@activefamilymag.com

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 3

Dr. Meeker is a pediatrician, who has practiced pediatric and adolescent medicine for 25 years. She is the author of six books including the best-selling Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: Ten Secrets Every Father Should Know; Boys Should Be Boys; Your Kids At Risk;, The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose and Sanity; Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: The 30 Day Challenge and Strong Mothers, Strong Sons: Lessons Mothers Need to Raise Extraordinary Men, (Ballantine) April 2014. She is a popular speaker on pediatric health issues and child-parent relationships.

Dr. Meeker is co-host and physicianin-residence of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk Radio. She is also Assistant Clinical Professor at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and currently teaches medical students and physicians in residency training. She is board certified with the American Board of Pediatrics and is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Meeker serves on the National Advisory Board of the Medical Institute. She has been married to her husband, Walter for 32 years. They have shared a medical practice for over 20 years. They have three grown daughters and a grown son. She lives in northern Michigan.

Ask Dr. Meg: My Child is a Tattle-Tale!

Siblings telling on each other is normal, but it's exhausting for parents who end up policing every little thing.

Hi Dr. Meg,

We have a tattling problem in our house. I have a nine-year-old and sevenyear-old who tattle on each other and their five-year-old brother. They say stuff like, "Mom, he slid down the stairs," or "Mom, she said a naughty word!"

If I do not respond with a consequence, my nine-year-old takes it into his own hands to “punish” his sibling. I am exhausted with policing every little situation. Help!

Sincerely, The Mom Police

4 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022 [ PARENTING ]

Dear Mom Police,

Ah yes, I know this problem well. It’s like having more than one mom in the house and nobody needs more than one mom disciplining their kids.

It sounds like your oldest simply has a bossy side to his personality and is probably going through a phase. The obsession with tattling will pass, but in the meantime, here are a few things you can do for your own sanity. Give consequences for tattling.

Focusing on your nine-year-old, tell him there will be consequences if he tattles on his brothers for small things. Take away his iPad or implement another consequence you know would work for him. Make sure he knows the difference between dangerous behaviors that require your help and small, inconsequential behaviors that aren’t his job to police.

Make your children say nice things to each other. At the dinner table, start a habit of saying nice things about each other. Have each child say something nice about the other such as, I like that you played with me

yesterday. Or, you’re really good at throwing a ball. Simple compliments like that will help instill gratitude in your children for each other, making them less prone to tattle on each other for small behaviors.

Separate them for brief periods of time.

Separate your two oldest children from time to time. For example, have one of them go to soccer day camp and the other art camp. They don’t have to be apart overnight. Even being apart for one day can make them feel differently about each other when they get home. Take time for yourself.

Don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Tattling kids and policing every little thing is sucking up a lot of your time and energy. Get it back! Take breaks when you’re able. Drop the kids off somewhere, leave them with your husband, go for a walk, meet up with friends. Carve out weekly time for an activity that feels restorative for you. Again, I want to emphasize the tattling phase won’t last forever even though it feels like it will. Employ consequences for tattling, separate your kids on occasion, and instill gratitude in them for each other. That gratitude will last long into adulthood.

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 5
[ PARENTING ] *Grades offered vary by location. Preschool State License: 434410807 Copyright © 2022 Stratford Schools, Inc. WE RN A OCAION O CHOO S AND COLLEGE THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS WHEN YOU BALANCE LEARNING WITH INQUIRY Learn More & Sign up for a Tour at StratfordSchools.com JOIN US FOR A TOUR Explore Stratford’s innovative and intentionally balanced STEAM-based curriculum and see firsthand how we foster creative thinking, innovation, and collaboration. Now Enrolling Preschool THROUGH Grade 8* Locations throughout the Bay Area
[ TRAVEL ]

HOTEL SPOTLIGHT: Quail Lodge & Golf Club

AN IDEAL SPONTANEOUS SUMMER GETAWAY

This month’s featured hotel offers a memorable experience that’s a great option for both a family, friends or couple’s vacation. It’s also a great lastminute option, as Quail Lodge is a quick under-two-hour drive, and as a large resort, typically has a few rooms available on short notice, even in the high season.

Located on 850 acres in the sun-drenched Carmel Valley, Quail Lodge & Golf Club is a kid and pet-friendly oasis with multiple dining options, beautifully renovated rooms, an 18-hole, championship golf course, a soothing spa, and plenty of recreational activities to keep the entire family happily occupied. Read on to explore all the details that make Quail Lodge & Golf Club the perfect spontaneous summer getaway.

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 7
[ TRAVEL ]

Year-Round Fun

There’s an activity for every personality at Quail Lodge & Spa, from friendly games of tennis and pickle ball to lazily lounging by the heated, outdoor swimming pool. More relaxation awaits at the resort’s tranquil Spa Adeline. Here, indulge in therapeutic massage, ladies and gentlemen's facials and other soothing treatments.

Adventurous types won’t want to miss the lodge’s unique “Land Rover Experience,” described as a customized off-road driving experience with steep descents, log climbing and tight hairpin turns, located in the hillside at Quail. Lessons and programs range from one hour to multiple days.

There’s much to discover offsite, too, whether it’s biking along the Carmel coastline, cruising the famous Pebble Beach 17-mile drive, or browsing all of the charming shops in quaint downtown Carmel. Breathtaking Carmel Beach, located walking distance from downtown, is a popular pastime for sunning, surfing and sandcastle making.

Memorable Dining

It’s not often that resort dining is quite as memorable as its surroundings. Happily, Quail Lodge is an exception. With three excellent dining options located at the lodge, you may not find yourself straying offsite for meals as much as you anticipated.

For daily breakfast with indoor and outdoor seating, (or delivered to your room) enjoy Breakfast at The Lodge. Located in the Quail Lodge Lobby, enjoy breakfast favorites such as buttermilk pancakes, avocado toast, gourmet breakfast sandwiches, overnight oats, and craft coffee.

8 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022 [ TRAVEL ]

For a delicious, casual lunch and a fantastic happy hour, visit Edgar’s Restaurant, located at the Club House. Offering indoor, outdoor, and to-go lunch service, expect delicious California-inspired cuisine with menu offerings such as halibut street tacos, Cobb salad, New England shrimp and lobster roll, and juicy burgers.

The Happy Hour menu features a selection of wine, beer and cocktails, along with great deals on snacks like quesadillas, grilled artichokes and warm pretzels.

Covey Grill is a superb choice for dinner, boasting sweeping views of sparkling Mallard Lake and verdant gardens. On the menu, choose from USDA grade steaks and sustainably sourced seafood and local wines. A children’s menu features classic favorites, including mac ’n’ cheese and hot dogs. Don’t miss the delectable desserts, especially the lavender honey goat cheesecake and seasonal pies.

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 9 [ TRAVEL ]

Modern Accommodations

Having undergone a 28-million-dollar renovation in the last decade, Quail Lodge & Golf Club is stunningly appointed. Decorated in classic and minimal style with rich wood furnishings, rooms boast luxurious bedding and textiles, and soothing cream, blue and green hues that mimic the natural surroundings. Some of the newly installed, state-of-the-art amenities include Wireless bedside charging stations, In-room coffee and tea stations featuring Nespresso, Interactive TV experience from Sonifi with Chromecast, and On-Demand movies, and much more.

Accommodations range in a variety of spacious guest rooms and suites. Guestrooms feature 394 - 650 sqft with double queen or king beds, many featuring fireplaces. For even more rooms to spread out, reserve a Junior, King Suite, Two-Bedroom Villa Suite ranging from 638 to 2,000 sqft. featuring private patios and cozy gas fireplaces.

Championship Golfing

As its name suggests, Quail Lodge & Golf Club is a sought-after golf destination, featuring some of the best and most picturesque golfing in the area. In fact, the course is repeatedly awarded “Best Playing Conditions” for all of Central California by GreensKeeper.org, year after year.

The 18-hole, 6500-yard championship golf course boasts perfectly maintained greens,

10 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022
[ TRAVEL ]

with towering trees, lush scrubs and beautiful flowers framing its fairways. The course is appropriate for all skill levels and was redesigned in 2015 by Principle Designer Todd Eckenrode – of Origins Golf Design. There’s also a 9-hole putting course for guests to practice their short game.

QUAIL LODGE & GOLF CLUB

8205 VALLEY GREENS DR CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, CA 93923 (831) 624-2888 www.quaillodge.com

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 11 [ TRAVEL ]

Dr. Laura Markham is the author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University and has worked as a parenting coach with countless parents across the English-speaking world, both in person and via phone. You can find Dr. Laura online at AhaParenting.com, the website of Aha! Moments for parents of kids from birth through the teen years, where she offers a free daily inspiration email to parents.

When Your Child is Anxious About Back-To-School

"Dr. Laura… My daughter (age eight) tends to be anxious. None of her friends will be in her class next year and she is feeling very nervous about the new teacher as well. Any pointers on what I can to help her prep emotionally?"

Many children are both excited and nervous about going back to school after summer vacation, especially if they'll be in a class without their friends. And we parents often share our child's fi rst-day jitters when the school year begins, worrying about their well-being and what we will do if they balk at going to school on the fi rst day. Here's your game plan to settle those worries and help your child start school again with confi dence.

Ask your child to tell you three feelings she has about returning to school.

12 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022
[ PARENTING ]

Then, ask why she feels each thing.

For instance, if she says "Excited, scared, worried" you might respond "I hear you. Excited, and scared, and worried. Tell me about excited."

• "I know you will miss Sara. We can make sure that you get to see her after school to play. Maybe even the first day!"

• "Last year when you started in your class you didn't know anyone, and you made friends within a couple of weeks."

She might say: "I'm excited about starting fourth grade!"

You: "That will be so exciting, right? And what about scared? Tell me about feeling scared."

She might respond by describing a specific fear:

• "I'm scared that I'll feel left out because my friends aren't in my class and the other kids all know each other."

• "I'm scared that I 've forgotten how to do the math so I won't understand it."

• "I'm scared that I will miss you a lot because I really liked being home with you this summer."

Acknowledge the fear:

Your answer will depend on what she says, of course. But your goal is not to talk your child out of the fear or worry, which will just make her feel she's all alone with it. Instead, offer understanding.

"You're scared about that, huh? That is a scary thought. Tell me more. What's the worst thing about that?"

Listen.

What our children need most from us when they're feeling big emotions is just our calm, warm presence, which helps them feel safe to explore the feeling. That's how they work through it, so the feeling starts to recede. So just pay full attention, nod, and restate what your child says so they feel you listening.

Then, reassure:

Empower:

"Hmm... I wonder what you could do if that happens? It's okay to feel that way -- lots of kids do. It might feel scary, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. I think you could handle it, if we think about it in advance and you feel prepared. You're pretty resourceful! What could you do to help yourself?"

Help problem-solve:

"I wonder what you could do to connect with one of the kids you like, before you are back at school next week? Maybe we can have a playdate with your friend this weekend."

And, after you've listened as much as you can... Invite laughter.

Laughter decreases the stress hormones circulating in the body, actually decreasing feelings of anxiety. So play games that get your child giggling to help her feel less anxious.

• Play bucking bronco with her on your back, so she shrieks with laughter as you lurch around the room trying to toss her off.

• Play airplane and zoom her wildly around the house.

• Put your palms against each other and let her push you across the room, giving just enough resistance to make it fun.

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 13 [ PARENTING ]

Go for any kind of play other than tickling that gets your child giggling, with as much warmth as possible. (Tickling doesn't seem to release stress hormones, and often makes kids more fearful because they aren't in control of it.)

Separation games are also useful, if part of your child's anxiety about school starting is about separating from you. One game is "Please Don't Leave Me." When you have been reading or snuggling with her and she starts to get off your lap, pull her back to you and tell her how much you love holding her, and to please not go away from you ever and you want to hold her always. Keep your voice light and playful rather than needy so she feels free to pull away, and keep scooping her back to you and mock begging her to stay. The point of this is to heal those feelings inside her of being worried to let you go again, now that she will have do without you at school. In this game, she gets to push you away and reassure YOU that's it's okay for her to leave.

a moment before YOU yell "Peanut Butter" and run out, and hug her. Say "I missed you too much to leave! Ok, I will be brave! Let me try that again." and go hide again. Again, come back out before she yells for you, which should get her giggling, especially if you play act being silly and excessively worried. Keep playing this, with you trying to yell first -- and not really leaving -- as long as she is giggling. Again, this game helps your child to face her anxiety about being separated from you, but in a safe way. And since you are the one expressing fear, she can reassure you, which helps her feel reassured as well. I'm sure you can come up with more rough-housing games that get your child giggling. Just notice what makes your child laugh and do more of it, no matter how silly it is. It doesn't even have to be explicitly about separation. All giggling defuses anxiety. The more giggling the better, when there's been so much fear and anxiety in the past year!

Another terrific game for separation anxiety is the Bye Bye Game. It's a simple version of Hide and Seek that triggers just a little separation anxiety, just enough to get her giggling. Say "Let's play Bye-bye. If you want me, yell Peanut Butter" (or whatever she would think is funny.) Then hide behind the couch, or the door, for just

Is the return to school a challenge for most children, parents and teachers? Yes! But when we face problems, and we have enough support, we develop the inner resources to manage those problems. That's how we develop resilience, not to mention new skills and capabilities. So take a deep breath and remind yourself "My child can do hard things, with enough support." And, so can you!

14 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022 [ PARENTING ]
Lara Mays Mobile Notary Services NOTARY & LOAN SIGNING AGENT SERVICES Loan Documents Power of Attorney Titles/Bill of Sale Living Trusts Refinancing & Mortgages Acknowledgements Bank Forms and more... Serving Alameda and Contra Costa Counties Since 2012 For Same Day Appt. Call: T: 925-719-5123 Email: Lara@LaraMays.com Commission # 2322389 Expires 3/26/24

A ROYAL FAMILY VACATION

Victoria, BC Offers a Noble Family Experience

Did you know that you can take a ferry to Victoria, BC from Seattle in under three hours for less than $200? I hadn’t either, until a few months ago. And now that I’ve experienced Victoria, I announce this little factoid to everyone I meet.

Victoria is a city unlike I’ve ever visited. Nestled on a harbor on British Columbia’s Vancouver Island, it’s studded with majestic buildings boasting century-old architecture, lively eateries, picturesque parks, and some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.

Named after Queen Victoria and incorporated as a city in 1862, Victoria boasts an old-world charm that’s evident almost everywhere you look. This noble city is small but mighty, and extremely walkable, making it a great trip for families. If you own a passport, make it your mission to experience Victoria, BC in the very near future.

WHERE TO STAY

Fairmont Empress — There’s really only one choice for lodging while staying in Victoria — at least in my opinion — and that’s the iconic Fairmont Empress. This renowned international landmark is awe-inspiring to behold — both the facade and interior. One doesn't often get the opportunity to stay the night in a building that’s over 100 years old, and I highly recommend experiencing this magnificent, castle-esque hotel for yourself. The Fairmont Empress boasts a prime location overlooking the marina within walking distance to all the best restaurants, museums, and shopping.

Located inside the Fairmont Empress is a delicious restaurant serving a decadent breakfast, as well as an indoor, heated swimming pool, a very popular bar

offering stellar views, and gorgeously renovated rooms with stately furnishings. Children will love visiting with the hotel’s mascot, Winston, a sweet Golden Lab who’s often seen lounging in the lobby.

WHAT TO SEE

Butchart Gardens — Talk to any local in Victoria and they will tell you, without hesitation, to visit the stunning 55-acre Butchart Gardens. It’s completely worth the 30-minute cab-ride to see this lush, vibrant and meticulously maintained oasis. This national historic site has been in existence for over 100 years, and features five main gardens, 900 plant varieties, afternoon tea service, and a vintage working carousel. Allow for 3-4 hours to experience the gardens.

Chinatown — Victoria’s Historic Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Canada, but it’s now not nearly as big as it was in its hay day, back in the 1850’s. Quaint and friendly, it’s only about two-blocks-big these days, but certainly worthy of a visit to explore authentic eateries, quirky shops, and eye-catching souvenirs.

Craigdarroch Castle —Built by wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, Craigdarroch Castle was constructed in the late 19th century as a family residence. In following years it has served as a military hospital, college, office building and conservatory before becoming what it is today, a historical museum. Tucked inside a residential neighborhood, the Craigdarroch castle is a sight to behold, even if you don’t make it inside for a tour.

WHAT TO DO

Walk Beacon Hill Park — Beacon Hill Park is a must-

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 17 [ TRAVEL ]
[ TRAVEL ]

visit when traveling with children, with its gorgeously maintained gardens, charming petting zoo, fun playground and wandering peacocks. Take a quick horse carriage or bicycle taxi to the park from your hotel, or not, because it’s most likely only a 5-10 minute walk.

Visit the Royal BC Museum — Another “must do” while visiting Victoria is an afternoon or morning spent at the Royal BC Museum. This longstanding gem, located within walking distance to many hotels, tells the history of the land’s indigenous peoples, as well as the area’s natural and human history. Children will love examining ancient artifacts and observing preserved bugs, reptiles, mammals, fossils and plants.

Take a Red Bus Tour — The “Hop On Hop Off” Red Bus Tour is the best and most convenient way to see the city of Victoria. Enjoy a bird’s eye view from the top of the bus as an expert tour guide relays the city’s oral history and points out major attractions. Guests may hop on and off at their leisure for 24-hours after ticket purchase.

Experience Miniature World — One of the highlights of our trip was stumbling into this magical, miniature world. Both kids and adults will delight in this impressive display of teeny, tiny worlds, painstakingly crafted with meticulous detail. Scenes from the Wild Wild West to King Arthur’s Camelot and Olde London Towne have been recreated in miniature detail for all to enjoy. Allow about an hour to see this unforgettable attraction.

WHAT TO EAT

Tea at the Empress — Afternoon Tea at the magnificent Fairmont Empress is not just a meal, it’s an event. Treat the family to an afternoon fit for royalty as they choose their own tea blend and nibble on a towering display of flaky scones, delicate tea sandwiches and picture-perfect sweets. Book this activity well in advance, because it almost always sells out.

Chinatown — For super authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine, head over to Chinatown. Consult a local, Trip Advisor or Yelp to discover hidden hole-in-the-walls and delicious dishes you’ll be dreaming of long after you unpack your suitcase.

Poutine & Fish & Chips — You can’t visit Canada without trying their unofficial fast food, poutine. A simple concoction of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, this mouthwatering pub fare is a great accompaniment to a cold beer. It would also be amiss to skip the fish and chips while in town, made with freshas-can-be cod or halibut, quickly fried with a crispy batter. Red Fish Blue Fish is a great option overlooking the marina, serving delicious fish & chips, chowder, and fish tacos.

WHEN TO GO

Known as the “Hawaii” of Canada, Victoria boasts temperate, mild weather year-round, so you can’t really

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 19
[ TRAVEL ]

go wrong on timing. However, certain times of year offer different attractions and varying weather.

Spring — Spring is a wonderful time to visit, especially if you want to go whale watching. Humpbacks, Orcas, Minke and Grey Whales can be seen migrating at this time of year. You may experience chilly showers during the springtime, but there are plenty of warm days to go around, as well.

Summer — Summer is a great time to visit because the kids are on a long break, which means more time to explore. Summer in Victoria is glorious, with mild, warm weather and many fun festivals. There are defi nitely more tourists visiting in the summer, but it never feels too crowded in Victoria. It also stays light out until around 9

-10 p.m., leaving plenty of daylight to see all the things on your list.

Fall — Shorter days and overcast skies begin in fall, but early fall in Victoria is still beautifully sunny and temperate. Crowds begin to disperse as the kids go back to school, so this time of year is a nice choice for a more intimate experience of the city.

Winter — Cold and wet weather is expected in the winter, and Victoria is no exception. While it doesn’t get as cold in Victoria as other parts of Canada, and it rarely snows, you’ll still want to bundle up and stay dry. The sun can set as early as 4:30 p.m. in early December, so plan your day accordingly if traveling in the winter.

20 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022
[ TRAVEL ]

With Invisalign Teen® clear aligners, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that treatment can be just as effective and costs about the same as with metal braces. But more importantly, your teen can enjoy a boost of confidence from the very first day of treatment and every day after. All things considered, the choice is clear.

• Ask about our patient referral program

• Complimentary whitening with Invisalign treatment

• 24 Month No Interest Financing

Dante Gonzales 4532 Dublin Boulevard Dublin, CA 94568
PD00061-00 Rev. A Practice specific marketing is sponsored by the provider and not by Align Technology, Inc.
before making a decision about braces. Talk to your orthodontist about the benefits of choosing Invisalign Teen® clear aligners. The truth about Invisalign® aligners. 925.230.0099 www.drdantegonzales.com

Andrea Woroch is a nationallyrecognized consumer-saving and family finance expert, author and frequent on-air contributor. She has appeared on hundreds of popular shows including Today, Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News and ABC World News. In print and online, her advice and articles have been featured in Time, Money, Forbes, Parents and more. Andrea also writes for a variety of personal finance and lifestyle sites, is a Financial Review Board member at BankRate.com and was included in the list of Top 100 Moms in 2021 by Modern Mom. Andrea resides in Bakersfield, CA with her husband and two young daughters, one of which is heading to go to Kindergarten in a few short weeks.

Read more about Andrea at www. andreaworoch.com or watch her demo reel to see her tips in action.

7 Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

Amid surging inflation, families face a new financial dilemma—paying for back-to-school. Considering the average American household is already spending nearly $500 more per month on basic necessities, finding extra cash to pay for school supplies, clothing and tech may seem impossible.

Parents are expected to spend $661 per student on back to school, according to Deloitte's 2022 Back-to-School study. Meanwhile, another study found that 75% of parents are stressed about paying for back-to-school shopping and about 3 in 10 expect to take on debt.

Though prices are up and the first day of school is looming, you don't have to stress or take on debt to afford back-to-school purchases. Consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch has 7 secrets to stretching your school shopping budget.

1. Shop at home first. Chances are you have left over supplies from last year so shop your home first. Perhaps you can put together a pack of scattered crayons, rip out pages in half-used notebooks, reuse folders and binders and wash backpacks.

22 ACTIVE FAMILY | AUGUST 2022 [ PARENTING ]

And, don’t assume your child needs all new clothing or uniform attire. Go through your kid’s wardrobe to figure out what fits and keep a list of items that need to be replaced.

2. Swap supplies and clothing.

Just as you have leftover supplies from last year, so do other families so set up a school supply or clothing swap with other parents or check with your school to see if they have already arranged a similar event. Many private schools will host a uniform exchange.

Otherwise, go online to swap: Swoondle Society allows parents to trade kid’s for clothing and accessories; Swap Me Sports offers opportunities to swap sporting goods; and Buy-Nothing Groups or local-mom groups on Facebook can be a treasure trove of free school goods.

3. Think outside regular retail.

Forget regular retail--stretch your budget by shopping second-hand. You can find gently-used clothing for up to 80% savings at Thredup or Poshmark, gently-used backpacks and sporting goods on OfferUp, and score up to 60% off certified refurbished electronics. Just make sure you shop with a reputable retailer and check eBay's certified refurbished category, Amazon's renewed products and Best Buy open-box deals, all of which come with a warranty.

4. Look out for nearby sales tax holidays.

Several states offer tax-free or reduced sales tax rates in August. Qualifying items vary from state to state, but often include basic school supplies, clothing, shoes, backpacks and even electronics. For example, Texas will waive sale tax on clothing, footwear, backpacks and school supplies priced under $100 from August 5 to 7 and Connecticut will host its tax-free week from August 21 to 27 for certain clothing and footwear items worth up to $100 each.

If you missed the tax free event in your state or they didn't offer one, don't overlook the opportunity to save if you're

traveling to one of the 15 states that offers tax-free deals this month.

5. Earn free gift cards to pay for school items. Whether you have miles built up in your frequent flyer account or points on your credit card, consider redeeming rewards for gift cards to use towards backto-school shopping. You can even tap into a cash back rebate app like Fetch Rewards to turn everyday shopping receipts into free gift cards to stores like Target, Walmart and Amazon to help cover school supply costs. Finally, you can earn free gift cards by taking online surveys at sites like MyPoints.

This is also a good time to look at getting a new cashback credit card as many offer free cash bonuses when you hit their spending minimum and that could cover a big chunk of your school purchases. Review cash-back cards at sites like CardRates.com to find the best one for your shopping needs.

6. Leverage tech to snag bigger bargains. As retailers fluctuate prices daily, knowing who has the best price can be confusing but using a few moneysaving apps and browser tools can help you snag bigger bargains. Download PriceBlink to your browser for instant price comparison and Sidekick from Coupon Cabin to get coupons applied to your online cart automatically. For in-store shopping, compare store circulars using the Flipp app and Edison Mail Deals to locate exclusive subscriber savings in your inbox quickly.

7. Stick to store brand and split bulk purchases. You can save 30 to 50% on school supply basics like notebooks, pencils, print paper and folders by simply opting for the store brand over the name brand. For example, this Five Star 1 subject notebook retailers for $3.39 but you can snag the same style from Target's Up&Up brand on sale for just 95-cents (normally $1 cents). Finally, splitting bulk purchases with other parents is a great way to snag cheaper per unit prices without dishing out more dollars upfront.

AUGUST 2022 | ACTIVE FAMILY 23 [ PARENTING ]
Our Team of Child Support Professionals Can Help: Let us focus on your Support Case so you can Focus on your Children • Establish Paternity (Free DNA Testing) • Obtain or Change Child Support and/or Medical Support Orders Did you know that August is CHILD SUPPORT Awareness Month? We’ ve Got Your Back! • Ensure Child Support Payments are Received Consistently • Keep Full Accounting of Payments & Interest 866-901-3212 www.acdcss.org www.cccdcss.us

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.