So here are a few tricks I have learned so that I may lose my mind and wallet one year but NOT again!

In mid to late September there will be the back to school supply clearance at most stores like Staples. So take $50.00 and stock up you will be set for supplies throughout the school year and for next year with the basics of most school supply lists.

Also if, like I was a single mom, you are really tight budget wise, do not buy the back to school clothes yet, buy the summer close outs. In a month or so get the back to school clothes on close out prices as well.

For me, I also had the expenses of football equipment. New cleats, expensive but so worth it, good football socks, men's equipment etc. First, get the annual required physical done in early July, you beat the rush and a big headache Next, in late July or very early August pay attention to the parents groups there is usually an equipment swap or equipment donation program. Also, here the coaches collected all the cleats that had been left in the lockers at the end of the previous year. Take them home and sanitize them with a dab of bleach so there aren't any issues.

Second, go to an athletic supply store NOT a sporting goods store the football socks you need are cheaper in the athletic supply store, buy three pairs, on this point do not be a cheapskate the good socks are worth it and make sure they are what the rest of the team is purchasing as well. Pick up any men's equipment you may need, get a new mouth guard again do not be cheap.

I also insisted on an additional meningitis shot at the beginning of my son's Freshman year, saved me a lot of grief when it came time for college enrollment. Senior year, get a TB test, way better than trying to do while enrolling in college.

Lastly if you have more than most, check out Staples many times they have a fill the bus challenge OR your local Salvation Army, they do back to school packs filled with the basics of school supplies -- HELP OUT. If your local area does not do an equipment exchange for sports get one going. Sports is one of the best environments for your young men and women to grow and flourish, one can only hope you have a coach like Bob Ladouceur.