From the time we decided that I would leave my full time job and stay home with our first child, I have been practicing ways to save money. But now that our first child is nearly eight years old, there has been one area that has become more difficult: finding good quality clothing for him and cheap or free prices.
One of the biggest reductions in costs for us was baby clothes. There is a wealth of great quality and great looking used clothes that could be had at thrift stores, yard sales and from generous friends. It was very rare that I would actually buy a children’s outfit for my kids at a normal retail store. Being able to have nice used clothes is a blessing for us. It has allowed us to afford things such as food and a larger vehicle to transport everyone.
One of the issues I have now, though, is that our first born child is nearly eight years old. At this age, finding gently worn used clothing for him is a big challenge. There are two reasons why it has become difficult.
The first is that boys of this age are pretty tough on their clothing. They tend to be in the same size for a while, and the activity level goes way up. Shoes get worn in a matter of months from using scooters and bikes, and even jeans get worn or ripped from the usual climbing, running, sports and general playing. So, the inventory of used clothes available at this age generally consists of either “church” clothes that were worn only a few times or clothes that are so far gone that you can hardly recognize them as clothing items.
The second reason is that at this age, kids are starting to be aware of fashion, even boys. There are certain things that are in or they are out. And while I don’t want to raise kids who are obsessed with fashion, the reality is that kids need to find their place in the world with their social network, so there has to be some consideration within reason. Nylon sports pants are in, while black jeans are out, for example.
Check back for part 2 and some tips on finding clothes for older kids.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.
Favorite Deal Websites:
Related Articles:
How to Get First Pick at Outgrown Sales
Creating a Rich Environment for Kids
36 Money Making Ideas for Kids and Teens
Setting Nintendo Wii Parental Controls
Controversial Device Repels Teenagers