For some it means getting back into a routine, for others it represents new goals and challenges. "Back to school" means different things to different people, but one thing it means to everyone is spending money. Going back to school costs an average of $100 to $125 per child for school supplies, books, sports equipment, extracurricular activities and other related expenses. But there are a few ways you can reduce the cost.

1. At the end of the school year, ask for a list of the school supplies you'll need for September. This will give you lots of time to determine your budget, look through flyers and find the best deals.
    
2. Read the list of school supplies carefully, then take inventory of what your child still has from last year. Certain items like scissors and geometry sets can be reused from year to year.
    
3. Stay away from bulk purchases. Big box stores offer great discounts for buying large quantities, but often the leftover items can't be used the following year because the supply list can change from year to year. It's best not to assume the excess supplies can be used another year.
    
4. It's best to buy everything in one place. This will save you time and energy, two things that are in short supply at back-to-school time. Also, with most department stores offering lowest price guarantees, you can buy everything in one place and still get all the discounts advertised in the competitors' flyers.
     
5. You don't need to fill up your child's pencil case all at once. If the list requires six lead pencils for the entire school year, start off with only two in the pencil case. Check the pencil case from time to time to see if you need to replenish anything. Your child will be more careful with the supplies if quantities are limited.
    
6. Look for quality products. It's better to pay more for a product that lasts than to buy the same item over and over because of poor quality. 
    
7. Don't give in to trends. If you buy a school bag that's trendy this year, chances are your child won't want it next year because the trend will have changed. 
    
8. Some elementary schools organize group purchasing. Parent volunteers negotiate the lowest price for school supplies, then bill the parents for the retail price. The savings can then be used to fund activities and field trips for the children whose parents belong to the group. For more information, contact your school board.