Valley Retailers Unleash Fierce Back-to-School Deals for Shoppers

Experts recommend involving your children in the budgeting process while back to school shopping.

MESA, Ariz. — As families across the Valley hunt for back-to-school savings, retailers are vying to offer the best deals. Target has introduced new savings this year specifically aimed at students returning to the classroom.

This year, Target’s offers include a noteworthy “20 for $20” list, featuring 20 essential school supplies for under $20. Items on this list range from colored pencils to glue, and notebooks, with a backpack priced at just five dollars, reportedly the lowest in a decade.

Using the Target Circle app can further enhance these savings. Notably, teachers can subscribe to Target Circle 360 for benefits like same-day delivery at a discounted price for the first year, according to store director Berto Gonzalez.

“We have up to 20 items totaling $20,” said Gonzalez. “These include paper, folders, and pens, catering from pre-kindergarten to college.”

The Cook family expressed gratitude for the competitive prices this year. “We probably should’ve set up a budget,” said Cook. “But it’s nice to find some good deals here.”

Additionally, Target is extending a 20% discount for teachers until August and a one-time 20% off deal for college students.

According to the National Retail Federation, families with children in elementary to high school plan to spend approximately $875 on school necessities, slightly less than last year’s $890.

Michael Klinkner, a licensed clinical social worker, recommends families involve their children in budgeting. This empowers kids in decision-making and helps in prioritizing expenditures.

Other tips include reviewing existing supplies and making a needs list. Engaging kids in researching prices and looking for sales can make the process educational and fun.

Klinkner also suggested turning budgeting into a game with incentives for children. “If there’s money left over, kids get to spend it on something special,” he explained. “Whether it’s ice cream or a treat, if they come in under budget, it’s theirs to spend.”

Starting budgeting early with children builds lifelong financial planning skills, experts say.