You either love it or hate it, but regardless of where you stand on the topic, it’s almost time for back-to-school! With three weeks to go, I’ve already started my back-to-school shopping for the kids.
My oldest son Kyle is entering grade 1 (someone hold me), so besides a new lunch box and water bottle, since he completely demolished his previous ones, all I really need to shop for are some new clothes. For Kyle, back-to-school shopping also means a new size upgrade since his birthday is in September.
As a stay-at-home mom to three kids, I’ve learned a thing or two about shopping for kids’ clothes. Specifically, ensure that not only are you spending your time efficiently, but you’re buying superior quality clothes that are fashionable, durable and affordable. Not to mention, if you have multiple kids of the same gender like I do (aka #Boymom), you really need to consider the longevity of your purchases as they will make great hand-me-downs! So without further ado, here are my tips for shopping for back-to-school clothes.
- Shop Alone – L E A V E T H E K I D S A T H O M E ! ! ! If a scientific study were to be conducted, I’m sure that on the parents shopping “WITHOUT KIDS” graph the efficiency and effectiveness lines would sky rocket. You can walk around the store, checking everything out, and then walk around again! You can pick things up, put them down again and basically just enjoy shopping. You won’t have a shadow, someone throwing a tantrum, someone demanding you buy them something you don’t want to buy, or someone yelling “let’s go home” on repeat.
- Buy Clothes Your Kids Will Actually Wear – This is especially important if you’re shopping without them (see point 1 above). For example, Kyle is obsessed with sports. Specifically, he loves hockey and baseball. I found several hockey-themed shirts at Carter’s | OshKosh and I knew they would be a hit, even though he didn’t pick them out himself. Whether your child is into trucks, outer space, or dinosaurs, you will find something for everyone on your list at Carter’s | OshKosh.
- Go Beyond the Essentials – Your kid needs new pants and tops but think beyond the essentials. Remember they will probably also need new socks, underwear, a rain coat, pajamas and a variety of both casual and dressier outfits. You can find all of these items and more accessories at Carter’s | OshKosh which offers clothes for newborns to kids size 14.
- Buy Clothes That They Can Grow Into – Kyle turns six in September, but size six clothes will probably be a little too big on him. That’s why I love the pants at Carter’s | OshKosh that come with sizing buttons so you can tighten the waist and loosen it as they grow into their clothes. It’s perfect for stretching the usage of the clothes for an entire year. Keeping them clean and stain-free is a whole other issue!
#CartersOshKosh #Kidsentials Contest
Want to win 1 of 6 $500 Carter’s | OshKosh gift cards to help you with your back-to-school shopping? Of course you do! All you have to do is enter HERE! A new winner will be selected every month.
Disclosure: This post is part of the YummyMummyClub.ca and Carter’s | OshKosh and the#CartersOshKosh #Kidsentials sponsored program. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. This post reflects my personal opinion about the information provided by the sponsors.
kathy downey downey says
I entered thanks for sharing
Darlene Demell says
It is expensive to get kids ready for back to school with all they need. I remember those days well but the kids are always pretty happy with their new things.
Nicolthepickle (@Nicolthepickle) says
I’m a big fan of OshKosh clothes. They have the same things in little kids and big kids sizes so I can match my girls if I want to. And yes, I do that. 😛
Darlene W says
Oshkosh is a reliable brand of clothing for kids
amystackhouse says
Thank you! I’m also a #boymom and we love Carters/OshKosh!
kristen visser says
all entered in ! love their clothes. my best friend came over yesterday with a bunch of clothes from their for my daughter (she is her godmother & wanted to spoil her with outfits)
andrea amy (@mommy2fiveboys) says
I love carters. They make the BEST PJs for kids EVER! So comfortable and great quality!
Catherine Brown says
I love this store, great prices and great clothes.
Doris Calvert says
I have no kids only niece and nephew and usually get them what they want so no saving tips from me!
LILLIAN BROWN says
entered I buy when on sale
Bethany says
i love back to school shopping! and carters/oshkosh have cute stuff at great prices – so bonus!!
Karla (@ksceviour) says
I wore Osh Kosh on my son when he was a wee one. They make awesome long lasting clothes!
Katie says
Big fan of Oshkosh and carters for affordable fun clothes
jay nelson says
Time is money too and I fiind that if I know a store’s product well then online shopping can be a blessing.
sarah alexis says
A carters/oshkosh store opened up in a mall really close to me and I started shopping there for my son. I didn’t’ realize before how trendy and affordable their clothes were – very impressed! And comfy too!
Patricia Szendrey says
Thanks so much for this opportunity 🙂 Love reading your posts~
Janet M says
Great tips. We did stock up at Carters when they had a good sale.
jan says
The clothing her is of such good quality for the price!
Lisa @fabfrugalmama (@fabfrugalmama) says
My mom always buys Carter’s clothes for the kids and it’s fab! I need to find a store near me. 😀
Victoria Ess says
Wow these clothes are nice!
Judy Cowan says
Love Carter’s Osh Kosh, I shop there all the time for my nieces/nephews. Great clothes for great prices!