September 6th is National Fight Procrastination Day, which might be the perfect time to overcome your procrastination habit. Being a procrastinator can be tough, especially when you deal with many deadlines. More often than not, people end up doing anything they can that doesn’t involve the task they are meant to. This can even include eating or shopping, which can wage war on your budget. Procrastinating can also cut back on your earnings, especially if you are self-employed or are waiting on a bonus check or promotion. These quick tips will allow you to combat your procrastination problem, without throwing money at the issue. So, take a deep breath and reassure yourself that you can end this habit for good.

1. Don’t Stress Yourself Out
One of the main factors of procrastination is stress, which can manifest in a few ways. You might stress out about the thing you have to do to begin which causes you to put it off for longer. Another problem is natural procrastination, which might cause you to stress out about the deadline. The main way to combat the problem of stress is to not think about the job as something difficult, even if it is. Instead, try to make some fun out of the experience. Even if you’re on a tight deadline, you should try to get in the mindset that the job is a challenge, rather than forcing yourself to watch the clock throughout the process of completing your task. By tricking your mind into not being stressed, you should find the task easier to complete. This will not only help with your current procrastination problem but might help you avoid the problem in the future.

2. Start Easy
Another problem is, many people try to tackle tasks as a whole. When you’re feeling like putting a task off then the idea of a huge project can be overwhelming. So, instead of viewing the task as a problem in the beginning, force yourself to work for at least fifteen minutes. When you’re finished with your fifteen minutes then take a break for a few minutes. If the inspiration still isn’t there, then work for another fifteen minutes. At one point, you’ll be eager to pass a certain portion of the task, so you will probably end up working for longer than fifteen minutes. If you begin your task early by doing this, then you can easily get it done faster using this method for a few days opposed to getting it all done in one sitting. If you do have to get the task done in a day, then the fifteen-minute method will allow you tackle other tasks while working on your main project. This will help take more pressure off of you, so you can feel more comfortable and relaxed while working.

3. Take Breaks
Taking breaks can be the best way to cut back on issues when you’re having a procrastination problem. More often than not, procrastination gets the best of us because there are other things we’d rather be doing. So, give your mind some time to do something you want. You should take breaks every 20 to 45 minutes to help your mind rest and to ensure you are practicing healthy habits. If you’re not taking breaks, then there’s a good chance you’re going to want to procrastinate again before you finish the task at hand. So, make sure you get up and move every now and then. Doing a couple of exercises between work can even help boost brain function. You might also consider a short walk to grab a snack or get fresh air. Another option is to put on some music or watch a short video to take your mind off of the task at hand.

4. Forget Perfection
Another major problem that people encounter is the idea of perfection. They feel they have to get the job done flawlessly on the first try, which can cause even more stress. When it comes to large projects, you should concentrate on completing the task before you get your mind set on making things perfect. Perfecting a task on the first attempt can take up a lot more time and cause even more frustration. When you’re finished with the task then go back over it. You shouldn’t feel as stressed out by this, which should give you the motivation to improve on your work.

5. Disconnect
Sometimes, procrastination isn’t always on purpose. We live in a world that is filled with distractions, which often causes us to put off the things we need to do without realizing how much time we’re spending on the distractions. One of the best ways to rid yourself of this problem is to actually disconnect until you can get the job done. Turning off your phone and turning your computer to airplane mode might be one of the first steps to help you. However, if you do need internet to complete your task then don’t fret. There are actually apps that can block distractions online. These allow you to block certain websites and messengers, so you can move on with your day. Many of these apps are actually free of cost, while those that aren’t free won’t break the bank.

6. Find Motivation
If you’re lacking in motivation, then there’s a pretty good chance that you’re going to let procrastination get the best of you. Motivation can be hard to come by though, especially if you’re not looking forward to doing something. However, there are lots of great techniques you can use to get yourself motivated. One way is to exercise before you take on a task. This doesn’t mean pushing yourself at the gym. Instead do an athletic activity you enjoy. You might also spend some time doing an activity that clears your head. You should choose an activity based on the project too. If you need creative motivation, then listen to music or doodle while brainstorming. You can also motivate yourself by reminding yourself that finishing the project will only improve your work life. Of course, motivation techniques do depend on the individual, so research methods to help you find the motivation you need.

7. Exercise
Believe it or not, but one of the best ways to help you get rid of your procrastination bug is to exercise. A lot of the time, a quick workout can help us to clear our minds, so we can tackle anything that we need to. Of course, stopping to do a few jumping jacks or sit ups while working can also improve your productivity. This is actually a lot better for your health too, which is a win win. Many people actually find that exercise is something they procrastinate at too, so by using this method you will actually be killing two birds with one stone, which might help you get rid of your procrastination problem altogether.

8. Follow a Schedule
Another way to help avoid procrastination is to make a schedule and stick to it. This can be tough, but if you tend to work best with routines then you’re going to get the most out of this technique. When you receive an assignment, schedule a little time to work on it each day. This will help you move through the task with ease. If you can keep your schedule going strong then you should be able to finish on time with less stress. Of course, you should also add in repercussions for not following your schedule. For instance, remove a reward you’d plan on treating yourself to if you don’t complete the schedule. With free time or a special treat out of the picture, you’ll want to get the job done so you can get back on schedule.

9. Ask For Help
Sometimes, the best thing we can do is ask for some help. If you’re working on a project for work, then see if you can work as a group instead of on your own. The team spirit might help you move the project much faster, which will stop procrastination in its tracks. Of course, if you don’t have the option of team work then have someone come in periodically to make sure you’re not doing something other than the project. Sometimes, knowing that you’ll get caught procrastinating will inspire you to get moving. This tactic might be especially great for college students working on their essays and research projects.

10. Reward Yourself
Of course, one of the best ways to get a move on when it comes to a project is to create a reward for yourself. This will give you an incentive to get a move on, so you won’t let the project drag out until the last possible moment. Your incentive doesn’t have to be huge though. For instance, you can treat yourself to a candy bar or pizza if you’ve been on a diet. You might even consider getting yourself a new outfit or a pair of shoes. Don’t let the price range get out of control though, as this will cost you too much money. You might even consider small incentives for each portion of the project you complete. A longer break or a small snack might work to your favor in this case. A reward system can really help inspire you to get a move on though, which is certain to help break your procrastination cycle.

Procrastination can really get in the way of life. This can cost us money and time that we won’t ever get back. So, on National Fight Procrastination Day you might want to try out a few of these methods to move on with your life and enjoy the extra time you have. On top of that, you’ll get the satisfaction of boosting your confidence when you complete the job on time with less stress than normal.

If you haven’t already made your Labor Day plans, then now might be the time to do so. For so many, Labor Day weekend is the last chance to enjoy the warm sun before school and work take over everything. If you’re on a tight budget, then there’s no reason to skip out on your Labor Day weekend fun. There are actually quite a few things you can do to have fun that won’t cost you a bundle. You might also consider a few activities that will prepare you for the busy months ahead. So, while you’re making your plans, check out these tips to keep you frugal this upcoming Labor Day weekend.

1. Get Organized
Life can get pretty hectic between Labor Day and tax season, so you might take the extra-long weekend to prep your home for the crazy season. One of the best things you can do is go through your files and get organized. You don’t need anything older than seven years, so you might want to pull out the shredder to help you make space for your upcoming files. You can even clear out the files on your computer to improve on your efficiency over the next few months. Of course, your files aren’t the only thing you should organize. You might want to go through your office supplies to make sure you have everything you need. This is the perfect time to get your students’ supplies packed and ready to go for school too. If you haven’t finished your back to school shopping yet, then get out and take advantage of the deals while you still can. With all of this handled, you’ll be able to breathe a little easier when the hectic season begins.

2. Do a Closet Cleanse
Without a doubt, it is way too easy for closets to over flow with clothes, shoes and other items. So, you might want to take this long weekend to ditch some of the items that you no longer need or want. Clothes are some of the easy items to sift through. If you don’t wear it, like it or it doesn’t fit then donate or sell it. This will allow you to make more room for the new clothes you’ll most likely be getting. Clearing out the closet will also make it much easier to find your favorite autumn sweater when you wake up one morning and the weather is suddenly cold. You may also want to go through your shoes and linens too to help make more space for your new items.

3. Pull Out the Autumn Décor
Although there are still a few weeks before autumn officially begins, many people consider Labor Day to be the transitioning point between summer and autumn. So, you might want to take this time to pull out your autumn décor. This doesn’t mean you have to put it out yet, especially if you’re still holding on to as much summer as you possible can. However, this gives you the perfect time to pull out your décor and dust it off. You can even choose which items you will put out and which will be donated or put back in storage. If items are broken, then you still have plenty of time to repair them before its time to decorate. This will also allow you to plan out how you’re going to decorate and take inventory, so you don’t buy an item that you already have.

4. Yard Work
Labor Day weekend is actually the perfect time to get your yard in order. It is very important to mow your yard down and keep it trimmed before autumn arrives. An unkept yard can lead to mold and other problems as the leaves begin to fall and the weather becomes a lot damper. Prepping can also make maintaining the yard in the autumn much easier, especially when it comes to picking up fallen leaves. You should also pull up dead or dying plants, trim your trees and get those gutters cleared out. Now is the perfect time to do it as well, as it will ensure you don’t have to get outside in the cold weather that should be arriving soon.

5. Work Up a Family Schedule
Since summer tends to be more relaxed, it is often hard to jump into the hectic schedule that autumn brings to the table. So, you might take your long weekend to work out the schedule that is going to keep you busy overr the next few months. It might be hard to make a complete schedule without all of the sports listings available, but you should be able to get a general idea as to what needs to be penciled in. Your schedule should also include chores and fun activities for the family to encourage a peaceful and clean household. If you have younger children, you might want to create a sticker system to help them stay on task. Of course, if your students’ classes have already begun then you might also want to add in testing dates as well as deadlines for projects and research papers, so you can keep track of everything in one place.

6. Retail Therapy
Labor Day is the last big sale you’re going to see before Black Friday arrives, so you might want to take advantage of some of the sales that you come by. There is bound to be a wide assortment of sales going on, so you should be able to fund just about everything on your list. Some of the things you should keep an eye on are items needed for school. This includes supplies, computers, printers and even clothes. Of course, there will be plenty of appliances and other goodies on sale too. Keep a look out on local flyers or check out your favorite store’s website to see what is going on during Labor Day weekend.

7. Soak Up Some Sun
Let’s face it, you’re not going to get a whole lot of sun when the autumn months arrive. With the change of seasons comes a major change in weather for most places. So, your blue skies are most likely to be replaced with gray clouds and rain. Another downside to the seasonal change is how busy you are. So, you might want to take this weekend to do some of the things you love. For instance, it might be the perfect time for some beach time or a final dip in the pool. You might also want to give your tan a little boost to help you stay golden during the autumn months. Of course, you should do this as safely as possible with sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect you from the harsh rays. Another fun idea is a simple picnic with the family or a sports day with all of your friends and neighbors. No matter what you do, try to have fun with it because it might be the last outdoor outing for some time.

8. Make a Savings Plan
The holiday season will be here faster than you realize, so Labor Day weekend might be the perfect time to sit down and make a plan. It might help to know some of the larger items that you intend to buy, so you can make the purchase without worry. There are many great ways to save over the autumn months too. You can cut back on fast food, workout at home or make a savings jar to help break a bad habit. With a plan in action, you should be less tempted to stray from your budget, which will ensure you will save more money than you may have thought possible.

9. Enjoy a Sporting Event
Summer sports are coming to an end and autumn sports are already in their preseason, so it might be wise for you check out a game this season. There are so many sporting events to choose from that you’re certain to find something everyone will enjoy watching. You don’t have to choose a professional game if you don’t want to either. There are lots of minor league games to enjoy or college sports. You might also check out the peewee leagues if you have a friend or family member participating. Sports can be a great way to blow off steam too, so you might consider joining a sporting event if you can. You don’t have to be a top competitor to have fun, so roll with it.

10. Relax
The best thing you can do over the Labor Day weekend is kick back and relax. You might not have a chance to really relax for a few months, so take advantage of the long weekend while you can. There’s lots of great ways to relax too. You can listen to music, go dancing, catch up on movies or even sleep. Of course, you might also want to consider finding an activity that helps you relax, so you can fit it into your schedule. One example is meditation. This can be done for free and will ensure your mind is able to slow down when it needs to. All in all, you should take this time to ensure you are relaxed and can find simple ways to relax during your busy months. The body and mind actually do need time to relax in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Labor Day weekend can be a lot of fun. It can also be valuable time to help you make a smooth transition into the autumn months. These tips should help you enjoy the last long holiday of the season, before everything shifts to busy days, pricey holidays and cold weather.

Back pain can turn the best of days into a nightmare, especially if you can’t afford a way to ease the pain. There are many causes for back pain and your best option is to see a doctor about the issue. However, if you have occasional back pain or you’ve already had your problem diagnosed then you’re probably looking for the best way to ease the pain on a budget. There are actually a few great ways to help with your problem that won’t cost you a small fortune. You may even be able to solve the problem without an expensive doctor’s visit or chemical solutions to the problem. So, get ready to try out a few potential remedies to make your back pain go away, maybe even for good.

1. Alter the Way You Sit
Posture is one of the main causes of back pain. So many people have poor posture and don’t even realize it, which can cause a lot of discomfort presently as well as major back problems in the future. It can be hard to alter our posture too, especially since many people slouch unconsciously. There are ways to work out the problem though. For instance, you can now purchase apps and other products that remind you to sit up straight and tall. Another way to improve on your posture is to take up yoga or do moves during your work break. These can come in handy for those that sit often. You should get up and stretch every twenty to forty-five minutes to help reduce back pain. You might also consider getting a chair that will help with posture. You may even want to swap your chair for an exercise ball during certain periods of day.

2. Rethink Your Shoes
More often than not, your shoes can be one of the main causes for your back pain. There are a lot of unique and fun styles on the market today, but many of these designs are for fashion only. Even work boots can do a number on your back if you don’t have the right insole for your body. So, you might want to rethink your footwear to suit your needs. High heels, flats and many sneakers are designed to ease back pain, so try to leave these at home when you can. Instead, consider buying a sneaker that is designed to improve your walking or running experience. These shoes can be worn at all times to help improve posture too. You can always buy a custom insole to help with your back though, which can be moved from shoe to shoe. This will help you make the most of your wardrobe while protecting your back.

3. Drink Water
You would be surprised by what dehydration can do to your body. Many people actually have back pain because their body is dehydrated. However, not having enough water in your system can actually cause your body to heal slowly or incorrectly if you do damage your back. So, one of the best things you can do for back pain is load up on the water. It might actually help to reduce the pain in your back immensely. However, if it doesn’t then you know you are still giving your body everything that it needs to heal properly, which should help make other treatments work faster or at least efficiently.

4. Tennis Ball Massage
Believe it or not, but tennis balls can do your body more good than you think. In fact, buying a set of tennis balls, which is pretty cheap, can actually take the place of some of the more expensive massagers on the market. All you have to do is place a tennis ball between you and your seat or the wall and let it work its magic. Try to position the ball in an area that is painful. After moving the ball around your back, it will help work out some of the knots and tension that have built up from your everyday life. Before long, you’ll feel as good as new, which will allow you to forget all about your back pain and the money that you thought you’d have to sink into it.

5. Exercise
Many people don’t realize how much your exercise routine, or lack thereof, can affect your back. Not exercising or stretching the muscles in your back can lead to pain that seems to never end. However, there are ways to improve on your back muscles, which can make your quality of life so much better. Doing typical exercises can improve your back immensely unless you have an injury that needs addressed. However, if you want to work specifically on your back then you might want to try out Tai Chi or Yoga. Both of these exercises are lighter on the body and use specific movements to work on stretching and strengthening the back. Of course, if you’re not interested in either activity as a form of exercise then you can simply try out some of the yoga positions that will help improve back pain quickly. These poses can even be done in the office or on the go, which will add convenience to your healing process.

6. Lose Weight
Your back problems might not actually be a problem at all. For some, back troubles can occur when a person gains too much weight. So, one of the easiest solutions is to try to lose weight to help with your overall health. If you feel sluggish or in pain, then you might ask your doctor for a little assistance in losing weight, so you can get on the right track quickly. Losing weight, especially around the midsection and bustline can help you feel more energized while also taking a huge strain off of your back muscles. Before you know it, your body should naturally heal.

7. Anti-Inflammatories
Sometimes, one of the quickest ways to get rid of your back pain is to consume something with anti-inflammatory properties. This tends to reduce inflammation within twenty minutes, so you can get on with your life. The most common anti-inflammatories are acetaminophen and ibuprofen, which can both be purchased over the counter at a fair price. However, research has shown that these anti-inflammatories might cause more problems than they’re worth if you use them frequently. So, you might want to power through the pain when you can. Of course, there are natural options to check out. Turmeric, for instance, is very common and can be bought in the grocery store or even in supplement form. There are also many other natural remedies that reduce inflammation too. A little research can help you find the perfect option for you. If things are too bad, then you might want to ask your doctor for a prescription to help reduce your pain.

8. Get a Massage
One of the best remedies for some back pain is to get a massage. Generally, you won’t have to spend a fortune to purchase a massage from a professional. You can even customize your massage to suit the pain you’re having. Most professionals should know how to pin point the area that is in pain and work out any knots in the area. Of course, you don’t have to pay for a massage at all. Your partner, a friend or even a family member may be able to help you work out the knots in your back. You can also invest in a back massager to help you deal with your pain. This simple step might improve your quality of life immensely.

9. Consider Other Practices
There might be a point in which you consider taking your back pain to a professional. Although most doctors can prescribe something for pain, you might not want to go this route if you prefer natural healing. One option to consider is a chiropractor. This professional can actually realign your spine and improve the way your body feels. These doctors can be a bit on the expensive side, but if you have a referral from your doctor a lot of insurance companies will cover some or most of the cost. Another practice to consider is acupuncture. This ancient art has been known to heal some of the worst pains in some people. Best of all, a session won’t cost you a fortune, so you can pay out of pocket if you need to. Of course, the practice you choose should be something you’re comfortable with, so don’t feel pressured to try anything you feel leery of.

10. Apply Heat/Cold
If your back pain is due to an injury, then one of the best things you can do is apply cold and heat to the problem. When the injury occurs, you should always ice it as soon as you possibly can. This will help reduce the swelling straight away, which can help ease the pain and allow the healing process to begin. If you often have to deal with swelling, then icing your back should become a regular practice. Of course, with muscle strains and injuries that are healing, you might want to use a heating pad or hot water bottle. This helps to relax the muscle which can cut back on pain immensely. Best of all, these methods cost you next to nothing.

Back pain can really get in the way of your life, so don’t put up with it if you don’t have to. These ten tips will offer you a wide assortment of options to try out that won’t leave you struggling to juggle your budget. With any luck, you’ll be feeling better in no time.

Autumn can be a pretty amazing time. From the cooler weather and beautiful scenery to the delicious treats and fun holidays, it is hard not to be excited for the season. However, there is one aspect of autumn that can really get on your nerves, especially when it comes to your budget. That inconvenience is all of the rain that usually appears during this time. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to help prepare yourself for the autumn rain and the season itself before it arrives. These ten tips should have you prepped and ready to handle everything that the ring brings to the table, so you can enjoy the season even more.

1. Put Up Outdoor Furniture
Although the weather will be cooler at first, you might want to plan on putting your outdoor furniture up if it cannot withstand the change in weather. Since school will be starting back up and many people tend to immerse themselves in other activities during the autumn, there is a good chance you will spend less time outdoors. So, storing your furniture will help keep it functional and beautiful for much longer. You should clean and properly dry off your furniture before putting away, which will make it less likely to rust or grow mold while in storage.

2. Prepare Your Vehicle
One of the most overlooked items during autumn preparation is often the vehicle. This can cause you to have to spend a lot more money on repairing issues brought about by a lack of preparation. One of the first things you should do is swap out your windshield wipers if they seem to be worn out. Another great thing to do is check out your tires or have a professional do so. You will want to make sure that your tires have enough tread to get you around safely during the cooler months. An inspection during this time is always wise too, because it is never fun to be stranded on the side of the road when the weather is rainy and cold. You should also prep your car for emergencies if you haven’t already done so. Two very important items to include in your car is an air pump and a first aid kit. Flares, a flashlight and other safety items are also good things to add to your trunk, just in case.

3. Organize Closet
If you’re looking to make your life a little easier then you might want to start organizing your closet as soon as the heat wave begins to subside. You don’t have to put away all of your summer clothes if you have the closet space, but you might want to take the time to move your cold weather clothes and rainy day items to the front of your closet or at least pull them out of storage. This will give you the chance to clean the items and try them on to make sure they still fit you properly. Doing this can save you a lot of hassle on the first day of the rainy season, especially if your clothes end up not fitting. Items that no longer fit or don’t suit your style can be sold for a little extra money or donated for a small tax break.

4. Make a Bad Weather Kit
Autumn can present some major challenges when it comes to the weather. From hurricanes and tornadoes to flooding and intense wind, it is best to prepare for the worst to help make your family feel secure. So, before the harsh weather hits, you should stock up on water and sustainable foods just in case you wind up stuck in the house for some time. You might keep more water on hand than you typically would in an emergency kit in case flooding causes water supplies to become contaminated. Of course, having a water bottle with a filter can help with this problem too. Another great thing to have on hand is flashlights, batteries and candles, which can help get the family through a power outage. Finally, you should have fun snacks, games and books ready to help take your mind off of the bad weather until it passes. An emergency plan is also a must for your kit, just so you can handle a poor situation efficiently if it does occur.

5. Inspect Home
The rain can cause a lot of damage to the home too, which might cause you to spend a lot of money if you’re not prepared. So, the best thing you can do is run an inspection of the home before the poor weather arrives. The first things you should get checked is your heater or furnace. You don’t want to turn on a hazardous item at the beginning of the season as it can cause fires, smoke damage and more. Sometimes, your insurance will even cover this cost, so ask around to see if you can get a free inspection. Checking this item can even help cut back on your electric bill, so it is more important than you think. Another item to check out is your roof. With the rain and snow arriving, you’ll want to make sure your roof isn’t going to leak, or cave in. Testing out your fire detector and carbon monoxide alarms are critical too, especially with the house being closed up. Finally, you might want to check the weather stripping in your home, as well as the foundation to make sure the cooler and wetter weather won’t cause damage to the home.

6. Waterproof Shoes/Jackets
If you love to have nice shoes, then autumn can be one of the most trying times for you. There’s lots of great shoe options for this season, but many of the most popular styles can easily be ruined by the rain. The same can be said for fashion jackets that aren’t designed for the rain, particularly those made of suede. Luckily, there is a simple solution to your problem. You can easily water proof your more expensive items. Many shoe stores and fashion boutiques can do this service for you if you’re willing to pay the fee. However, there are also kits to do this at home. If you don’t want to do such a thing then you might consider investing in shoe covers and light ponchos or anoraks to keep your items looking good.

7. Find Indoor Activities
Rainy days often mean spending more time indoors, which can cause the whole family to become bored. So, before the rainy and cold weather arrives, you might want to stock up on activities. One of the best things to get is fun games. This can range from board and card games to games that the family makes up. Crafts can be a fun way to kill some time too and will help children exercise their creativity. This is also a great way to decorate the house, so it feels more appealing for the season. Of course, you should also come up with indoor friendly exercises that are fun to do. This will help keep everyone healthy when they can’t go out and play.

8. Find Alternative Routes
Sometimes, the rainy weather can become a bit too much for the roads in your city or town. You might even find that trees fall into the street more often, or you have to dodge other debris in many areas of your community. This can cause you to be late for work, school and more. Thus, is might be wise to come up with a few alternative routes to help your family get to where they need to be in a timely manner. Knowing these alternative routes might even help prevent damage to your vehicle which will save you a whole lot of money in the long run.

9. Prepare Your Garden
More often than not, the garden and even the lawn is overlooked before autumn arrives. Dead plants and overgrown grass are often left, which can cause a lot of problems in your yard during the autumn and winter months. Before the weather gets too bad, you’ll want to remove seasonal plants, especially those that are dead or dying. If the weather gets very cold in the winter and autumn, then wrap your shrubs to protect them from the frost. You can also place plastic bottles over vulnerable plants during the harsh weather and at night. Before things get too wet, lay out mulch too to ensure your soil will be good when planting season arrives. Finally, trim your trees, especially those branches that might break off if covered in ice or subjected to harsh winds.

10. Don’t Forget Your Pets
The rainy and cold weather also affects your pets, so don’t overlook them when it comes to your preparations. One of the first things you need to do is purchase supplies that will prevent you and your pet from getting cold and wet during your daily walks. These supplies are actually very cheap, and you can customize them to suit your personality. Clothing and leashes with reflectors will also come in handy, especially when you walk early in the morning or in the evening when it is still dark out. Sometimes, pets can’t always make it until the harsh weather subsides, so you might stock up on cleaning supplies that will help you efficiently clean up accidents. Items to help you quickly clean up after your pet outdoors are also a must. Another thing to consider is your pet’s outdoor house. This should be checked for leaks, especially if your pet is outdoors often. You might consider adding newspaper and blankets to keep your pet warm. If you have a lot of strays in the area, then setting up a safe space might help out too. This can be a simple box with newspaper and a water bowl. There’s lots of great DIY tips for these temporary shelters online, if you’re interested in making one or more.

Autumn can be a real pain when it comes to inconvenience and your budget. However, the season is also filled with beauty. These ten tips should help you properly prepare for all of the rain the season brings so you can enjoy autumn more and stress a whole lot less. Best of all, you won’t have to put as much money into staying comfortable when all of the rain arrives.

August is National Family Fun Month, which leaves you with plenty of time to bond with your loved ones. Since school is right around the corner for most children, this month might be the best time to enjoy each other’s company before you go back to the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine. You don’t have to spend a fortune on family fun month either. Luckily, there’s lots of things you can do for free or next to nothing. If you’re at a loss for ideas, these ten tips should help steer you in the right direction. You might even incorporate some of these ideas into your weekly routine to help your family find more time for each other.

1. DIY Workshop
Nothing helps the family bond quite like working together to learn something new. If your family is interested in picking up new skills, then signing up for a workshop might be the best way to go. Unfortunately, these workshops do cost money most of the time, but the experience will help you save money in the long run. One of the most common workshops is a family cooking workshop. This amazing experience will give kids a basis in cooking but can also teach parents new tricks as well as frugal ways to make meals. Some stores, like Home Depot and Lowes also offer little workshops on the weekends. Some of these are free and teach wood working and home improvement skills to children and adults. Of course, the workshop you choose will have to be based on your family’s needs and desires. So, have a little fun when choosing.

2. Book Club
Book clubs are all over the place right now, which makes them a great way to bond with your family. This can also help your children gain a love for books at an early age, which can inspire them to learn more even as adults. Local libraries are a great place for the family to sign up for a book club. Often, libraries have a book of the month for people to enjoy and even offer groups to discuss the book. These recommendations and groups are often for all ages too, so you should be able to spend lots of time at the library together. Of course, many stores are also offering book clubs. For instance, Barnes and Nobel has recently started one that offers all sorts of activities for the family. More recently, kids had the chance to build their own Hogwarts Express from LEGO. These clubs aren’t hard to find either, so look around in your community to see what your family can sign up for.

3. Scavenger Hunt
One of the best free options is to come up with a scavenger hunt for the family to enjoy. This will allow you to get outside and enjoy all that summer has to offer before it goes away. There’s lots of great ways to enjoy a scavenger hunt. You might even be able to download a list of items to collect online, especially if you’re traveling to a specific destination. In fact, many zoos, aquariums and even national parks will offer scavenger hunt lists to help keep visitors busy for hours. You might also bring your camera because you never know what photo opportunities will arise while you’re exploring the world around you.

4. Get Crafty
Crafting is a great way for the family to come together and have some fun. It can also be an exciting way to get to know one another better through the expression of art. You can find so many crafts online that you might not know where to start. Many of these crafts cost next to nothing to make, especially if you have supplies readily available at home. If you want to make your craft time count even more, then you might get a jump start on some holiday crafts. This will allow you to have décor ready to go when the season arrives. It can also help you stock up on holiday gifts for your loved ones. Another great option is to make a special craft your child’s teacher, which will help start the year off on the right foot.

5. Outdoor Performances
August is a great month to take part in some exciting outdoor performances. Many communities love to bring people together during the summer, so they host a wide variety of fun things for the whole family. One option is for your family to check out a movie in the park. These movies most likely won’t be new blockbusters, but they are generally fun movies that the whole family will enjoy. Another great option is to take in a concert in the park. These can be lots of fun and are often free for all to enjoy. You might even discover a local band that the whole family will love. Often, you can even pack your own food and drinks for this event, which might make it the perfect time to indulge in a family picnic. Generally, these items are in the evening and night, so the weather won’t be too unbearable either. However, you might pack blankets and light jackets just in case the autumn temperatures decide to sneak in.

6. Build a Fort
One of the best things about childhood is the amazing forts that kids get to play in. Even adults can’t resist these awesome structures. So, this month, you might want to channel your inner child and help your little ones create the perfect fort. You have an abundance of options to choose from for this task too, so you might consider trying out a few different options during your free time. Your structure can be as temporary as a reading fort made of blankets in the living room or as permanent as a tree fort in the backyard. There’s lots of great ways to save on permanent structures too, so don’t let your budget but a damper on your fun.

7. Explore the Children’s Museum
If you have younger children in the home, then a trip to the children’s museum might be the perfect bonding experience. Often, these establishments are free or low cost, so you won’t have to worry about spending a bundle on the trip. Children’s museums offer learning experiences for kids of many different ages too, so every child should be able to find something that catches their interest. The museums might even offer shows, performances, special exhibits and more. Most museums do offer hands on activities and crafts, which will help broaden the learning experience. Parents will also find ways to enjoy themselves at the museum too, as many activities require parent and child bonding.

8. Game Night
Your family can’t go wrong with the timeless classic game night. This might be a great time to ditch technology and enjoy an old-fashioned board game. If you don’t have any games on hand, then check out the clearance section of your favorite department store or look into buying a game from a thrift store. You can also settle with a deck of cards to ease your boredom. These games can even teach children skills. If you aren’t interested in these types of games then you can always try a round of Pictionary, charades or adlibs to have some fun. Of course, if you don’t want to disconnect for a while then enjoy playing some of your kids’ favorite video games. You can have a dance party or simple play a racing or action game. As long as you’re doing it as a family you should have a blast.

9. Play at the Park
For most kids, a trip to the park is enough to keep them happy for days on end. So, you should use your local parks to help make your family fun month out of this world. One of the best things about the park is it offers so many options. For younger kids, playing on the equipment provided might be the best thing in the world, especially with their parents playing along. You can also use the extra space in the park to enjoy a few sports or made up games that will have everyone laughing and enjoying themselves. The park is the best place to bond too, since there aren’t many distractions there. This is also the perfect way to make the best of the warm weather.

10. Enjoy a Fair
August is prime fair season, which gives you a great option for Family Fun Month. Many fairs are actually free of cost, so you can go to enjoy the atmosphere without having to worry about spending a bundle on admission only. Of course, all games, rides and food will set you back a bit of money but with the free admission you should be able to get more out of the experience. Of course, those fairs that do charge usually aren’t pricey. Fairs often offer free activities like petting zoos and more, which should allow you to fill up your free time with activities the kids will love. If permitted, you should make sure to bring in water and snacks to help keep everyone satisfied if you’re avoiding the pricey fair food.

Family Fun Month doesn’t have to be a time for extra expenditures. Instead, you should be able to find value in the bonding time your family shares. These ten ideas should help you plan out the rest of the month of August, so that everyone has a blast. Your family may even look forward to August next year, as it is such a great time enjoy being together as a family.

Potty training can be a parent’s and toddler’s worst nightmare. From the frustration to the messes, you’re bound to feel hopeless if you’re not ready to take on the challenge. One thing that can make this journey even worse is the cost of potty training your little one. Luckily, there’s a few ways you can cut back on the costs of potty training your little one, which will take away one of the major stressors of the tasks. So, take a deep breath because these ten tips aren’t just going to help save you money, but might even make the potty training task a little easier to tackle.

1. Know When Your Child Is Ready
A lot of the time, parents aren’t entirely sure if their child is ready for potty training. So, they jump the gun and spend a small fortune on things to help make the transition to the potty easier. This can cause you to go through package after package of pull up diapers and so much more. The best thing you can do is know when your child is ready, so potty training can be a much shorter process. There are many signs to help you know when it’s time. For starters, your child will have dryer diapers for longer periods of time. They may even wake up from naptime or bedtime dry. Children that are preparing to use the potty will also have less patience for dirty diapers and might even let you know when they have soiled a diaper or are preparing too. Another sign is your child’s interest in the toilet. Of course, there are many other signs that quick research or a chat with your pediatrician can help you with.

2. Choose the Right Potty
There are a whole lot of pottys on the market these days. Some are very simple while others have every bell and whistle you could possibly imagine. Many parents choose to go for the most intricate pottys because they feel they are newer and more modern and thus must make potty training easier. This isn’t necessarily the case. Your child’s personality will determine what kind of potty your child needs. If your child is too distracted by things, then an intricate potty might not be the right answer as it might inspire the child to jump up in the middle of potty time. Of course, you can still keep things simple while catering to your child’s interests. For instance, there are many pottys on the market that offer characters that your child will love, which might inspire the potty experience to be easier than ever.

3. Skip Pull Ups
Purchasing pull up diapers for your toddler seems like the logical step when potty training. However, this can be one of the most costly steps you can take during your training process. Pull up diapers often make your child feel like they still have the diaper to rely on during the training period. Thus, it can take your little one a bit longer to gain the confidence needed to just go potty. With time added on to your training period, you’ll end up going through packs of pull ups very quickly. These packs are hard to find in bulk too, which means you’ll be spending more than ever. So, skip the pull ups altogether. Instead, stick with diapers at night and underwear during the day time.

4. Training Underwear
It’s very tempting to purchase regular underwear for your toddler. There is actually no harm in this, but it might force you to do a lot more cleaning up than you probably want to do. The best underwear to help with your child’s potty training is a training underwear. This underwear is still made of fabric, but it is much thicker than regular underwear. Thus, if your child soils the underwear it is much easier for you to take care of the mess. This underwear is easier for toddlers to grip too, which will help them pull their underwear up and down. Best of all, training underwear has cute characters on it that will make your child feel proud to be wearing their underwear.

5. Incorporate Media
These days, most toddlers already have a few characters that they look up to. Luckily, many programs designed for toddlers will have potty training episodes that can help you inspire your toddler to use the potty. Some programs, like those from PBS, will even produce media like books and DVDs that will help your toddler understand potty training and feel more comfortable on the matter. These products tend to not be pricey and can entertain your child even after they are training. Often, you can find these videos for free online. Of course, there are also inspiring videos for parents that will help you get through the process too. With a little help from books and shows, you should be able to enjoy the process a bit more.

6. Create Distractions
Sitting on the potty can be really boring for your little one, so you might need to come up with some distractions to make the process a lot easier. One of the best things to do during a potty session is to read a book. It might be even more efficient if the book is based around potty training. You may also want to come up with a few games to play during the potty session, which will inspire your child to want to sit down and go. Of course, singing songs can also be enticing for little ones and will make the process a better bonding experience. Many children love to color while sitting on the potty too. So, choose a few activities that you know your child will love and you should be on the path to success.

7. Make a Chart
One way to make your toddler feel successful with potty training is to come up with a chart to show their potty successes. Every time your little one pottys you can add a check mark, happy face, sticker or stamp. This will help give your child incentive to go, especially if you are adding fun things to their chart. If you want to make the chart even more enticing, you can offer a special treat for reaching so many stickers. Before you know it, your little one will feel excited to use the potty without you having to ask. There’s many templates for these charts too, so you will only have to purchase the stamp or stickers if you choose to go that route.

8. Offer Incentives
Without a doubt, incentives are one of the best things you can do to inspire your child to use the potty. Of course, the incentive can be based on your parenting style. For instance, if you don’t want your child having candy then offer a berry or their favorite healthy treat as a reward when they go potty. Many parents choose to use small candies, even if they don’t normally allow their child to have such foods. This makes the task even more exciting for your child. Of course, you should also base the reward on the achievement. Many children have no problem urinating in the potty, so the reward for this might be less than having a bowel movement in the potty. You might also give your child a special reward for going so many days without having an accident.

9. Bulk Cleaning Supplies
One of the worst things about potty training are all of the messes that are less than pleasing to clean up. Thus, you might do yourself a favor and stock up on cleaning supplies before you begin the process. Buying these products in bulk can help save you a lot of money and will help you feel better prepared for the journey ahead of you. Laundry supplies are one of the most common items to stock up on, because children may go through a lot of underwear during the first few days. Another item to stock up on is cleaners for the floor, just in case your child decides the potty is the last place they want to go. Even if your child doesn’t have a lot of accidents, you will still need a cleaner to use in order to disinfect the potty when your child does use it.

10. Make the Time
The most valuable thing you can do for your child and yourself during this training period is take the time to do potty training right. This task is going to need a lot of attention, so be prepared to drop everything for your child. If you work or are frequently busy then it might be wise to take time off work or plan the training around a time frame when you have multiple days off in a row. This will allow you to tackle potty training without having your child regress. Taking the time to do this will also save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to spend your days off retackling the issue to the point that you just feel like taking a larger period of time off of work to help your child get through the challenge.

Potty training is never an easy task, even if your child takes to it like a fish to water. Between the accidents and clean ups your hands are going to be full. These simple tips should help your child learn to potty faster, so you can feel less stressed about the issue. Before you know it, you’ll be saying goodbye to diapers for good, which will save you a whole lot of money.

The first day of college is right around the corner, which is certain to bring excitement as well as anxiety. One of the main stressors for new and veteran college students is the prospect of their free time while at school. Since most students are on a tight budget, it might be hard to figure out what to do in their spare time on a budget that will allow them to spend next to nothing. Luckily, there’s a lot of great ways to spend your free time that can actually be stimulating too. These ten ideas should help you enjoy your free time while making the most of your budget. So, don’t stress that you’ll end up starring at the ceiling when you’re not studying, because these ten tips will ensure you have all of your spare time occupied.

1. Join a School Club
One of the best things about universities is they tend to cater to a wide variety of interests and personalities. This can really work out in your favor, especially if you’re looking for something to keep you busy during your off-time. Most universities will have a lot of clubs for students to enjoy. You can find everything from academic clubs to clubs based off of your interests. You can even join a Greek House if that is something you think you would enjoy. Most clubs are inclusive, so all you have to do is sign up. They are also a great place to make new friends, which is perfect for first year students. Best of all, clubs shouldn’t cost you a penny. There might be costs for special activities, but clubs tend to do fundraisers for these activities. Clubs also look great on your transcript, so if you plan on signing up for an internship or pursuing a graduate degree then you might have a leg up.

2. Volunteer
If you have a lot of time on your hands, then you might consider joining a volunteer program. There are many places looking for help, so you can choose from a wide range of options. Habitat for Humanity is a great option for students that want to learn handy skills while they’re in college. This program will allow you to help build a house, which can include woodworking, gardening and so much more. Of course, there are also many programs that are easy to jump into if only for a day. For instance, you can work in a soup kitchen, hand out food at a local pantry or even pick up trash in your local park. You might consider spending time in a nursing home or hospital too. If you do decide to work with a program often then you can always add the work to your resume, which will look great for future employers.

3. Extracurricular Activities
Just as in high school, there are lots of extracurricular activities you can take part in that will help cut back on the free time that you have. One of the most common options is to join a sports team. There’s lots of sports to choose from too, so you can enjoy playing something you actually enjoy. If you make a sports team then you will have lots of practices to attend and you will probably even have to travel with the team for competitions. Another great option is to join the school band. This doesn’t always mean you’ll have to perform at games, because most universities have a variety of different bands to choose from. Of course, there is so much more to choose including robotics teams, debate teams and so on. These activities can even earn you college credit too, so you can cut back on some academic courses that might be trying.

4. Tutor
Students that excel in a certain topic might want to take the time to tutor others. Generally, most universities will offer a tutoring program that you can enroll in. This program will offer training, support and much more to help you succeed in your tutoring task. Of course, you can always do tutoring on the side to earn a little money too. There are many ways to advertise your services on campus too, so you won’t have to spend money to do so. Tutoring can take up a lot of time, especially during exam periods. So, you should be able to stay busy without the temptation of spending money.

5. Campus Activities
Your campus should be one of the first places you look for free or cheap entertainment. You will be surprised by how many amazing activities that your campus offers its students. If you are looking to pick up a few extra lessons at no cost, then you’re bound to find guest lecturers frequently. You can also enjoy movie screenings, concerts, plays and so much more. Many campuses even host parties for their students, which can help keep you busy on the weekends. Your campus bulletin is the best place to look for these activities. However, if you’re uncertain how to keep up with the activities then talk to a member of the Student Union. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself all booked.

6. Enjoy the Gym
Most university campuses offer a great gym for students to take advantage of. All you need is your student ID and you should be good to go to take advantage of the facility. This can be one of the best assets at your school, because it will allow you to kill your spare time while improving on your overall health. Best of all, working out every day or even just a few times a week can help with your studies. Exercise helps work off stress, which will ensure you won’t feel too frustrated while dealing with exam periods. On top of that, enjoying the gym can help avoid the freshmen fifteen which will help boost your confidence as you navigate through this fun period of your life.

7. Find a Job
Believe it or not, but one of the best options you have available to you is the prospect of finding a job while you’re studying. It might not sound like a fun way to spend your time but having a job while in college can actually benefit you in many ways. For starters, it will allow you to see what the work force is like without a college degree. A job will also give you money that can help take a huge burden off of your life. You can use your paychecks to start paying on your student loans, which can help cut back on the interest you pay in the future. On top of that, having a job will give you money so you can attend concerts, go out to eat and other activities that you’d normally enjoy. Best of all, you’ll have job experience to put on your resume when you do finish school. This can help you land a better job right out of college. Of course, a job can also teach you time management skills, will offer a wide variety of skills you can learn and might even help you make some new friends and other connections.

8. Embrace Mother Nature
Getting a little fresh air when you have some time to kill is always a great way to enjoy life. There’s lots of great things you can do outside that doesn’t require you to spend a lot of money either. For starters, you can easily enjoy your favorite sports with a team or even just a group of friends. Of course, you don’t have to enjoy classic activities if you want to have fun outside. You might consider going for a hike or simply a walk in a local park. Another fun option is to go for an adventure and utilize your photography skills to capture some of the sights. You might even consider grabbing a book and reading outside. No matter what you choose, the fresh air is bound to improve your mood and health and it won’t cost you a penny.

9. Student Discounts
Without a doubt, you can maximize your free time when you utilize your student ID. Your ID is the key to many great discounts, especially if you stick close to your school. One of the more common uses for the discount is at the movie theater where you can get a great discount on movies you have been wanting to see. Local restaurants often offer discounts to students too, so if you need a break from the cafeteria then visit a restaurant that offers such a deal. Some establishments will even offer happy hours designed for students. Of course, museums, zoos, aquariums and so much more will also reduce the price of your ticket. You may even be able to do a little therapeutic shopping with a discount. Just make sure to ask about discounts before you make any purchases.

10. Groupon
Once you make some friends that have similar interests then you’ll be set to take advantage of the many deals that Groupon and other social coupon companies have to offer. These amazing deals will allow you to enjoy a wide variety of activities around your community, which can help make your free time even more inspiring. Best of all, you split the price of the activity with a group, so you won’t end up paying full price for anything. Some of these special coupons will even factor in a student discount on top of the coupon, so don’t be afraid to ask for this. If you don’t have a group to join in on the fun, then you can always post a notice at school to see if anyone is interested in joining. This might be one of the best ways to make friends with people who enjoy doing the same things as you.

Finding something to do in college that is easy on your budget doesn’t have to be a battle. These ten ideas will help keep you busy while ensuring you can have some fun and gain a lot from your university experience. With any luck, you’ll be able to pack your schedule full so you won’t be tempted to spend money in your boredom.

August 17 is National Thrift Store Day, which couldn’t be any better timing. With school season on its way and wedding season peaking, you should be able to save some big money simply by shopping at the thrift store. However, sometimes the thrift store is a little too good to be true as there are some items you simply shouldn’t purchase there. Although it might be hard to decide when you should or shouldn’t purchase an item at the thrift store, these ten tips should help point you in the right direction. With this knowledge, you should be able to save some big money while enjoying your thrift store shopping experience.

1. Do Buy Clothing
Clothing is one of the best items to purchase at the thrift store. In some cases, you can even purchase brand-new clothing at the thrift store for a fraction of its original price. For some parents, it just makes sense to shop second hand. Kids outgrow clothing so quickly that it is hard to keep throwing money towards each growth spurt. On top of that, shopping second hand is better for the environment. Of course, you should be careful and check out the clothing beforehand. If it is holey or too worn then pass it by as it won’t last as long as new clothing would. Tees, jeans and even jackets are always great items to buy though, as they will cut back on your school or fashion shopping bill. However, one of the best options to buy from a thrift store is a prom dress. You won’t pay nearly as much as you would for a new dress and you can easily customize the dress to suit your child. There are many formal dresses available too, for those going to cocktail parities or even weddings.

2. Don’t Buy Intimates
Although thrift store clothing is great, you should never purchase anything that is intimate. This list includes underwear and socks. Using other people’s panties, briefs, boxers, bras and more is unhygienic and might even provide you with health problems. These items can’t be sanitized enough to warrant sharing, so just avoid them altogether. Bathing suits are another item that you should not be checking out at the thrift store. Another item you should skip is shoes. These items are nearly impossible to sanitize properly, so just skip them altogether no matter how pretty and inexpensive they are. Finally, if you do come across makeup at the thrift store, just skip the item altogether. You can get major infections from using other’s makeup. Even if the item is unopened, you should still skip it as you never know how old it is.

3. Do Buy Antique Furniture
One of the best things to purchase at thrift stores is antique furniture. You never know, you might end up purchasing something that is actually worth a lot of money. However, if you’re just looking for aesthetic then the thrift store should also offer lots of great options. You might even be able to find tables with built in sewing machines or typewriters. If you want a vintage look for your home, then you can probably furnish it for under a few hundred dollars. You should be very leery if an item looks reupholstered though, as it might contain bedbugs. So, make sure to inspect everything you plan on buying and clean everything you do purchase well before bringing it into the home.

4. Don’t Buy Mattresses
Most thrift stores will have a small section of mattresses for people to choose from. However, you should never purchase a used mattress. There are many cheap alternative options that you can use if you don’t have the money for a mattress right now. Used mattresses offer a wide range of problems. First of all, someone else has slept on them. So, there is bacteria and germs on them that you can not fully clean. Another problem is mattresses attract bedbugs, particularly because of the skin fragments and more that get left behind when people sleep. Thus, you could be bringing something into the home that will take hundreds of dollars to get rid of, on top of the stress and frustration that the critters create.

5. Do Buy Collectible Dinnerware
If you’re a collector or you love the way old fashioned kitchens look, then the collectible dinnerware at thrift stores is bound to be the perfect purchase for you. You might have to look hard for items that are worth money, but in most cases, you can find some pretty items that will make your kitchen look great for cheap. Generally, you can find some variation of fine China, collectible plates and even crystal dinnerware at thrift stores. These all make great show pieces. However, you should never eat or drink with crystal dinnerware, especially if the item is old. These items can actually give you lead poisoning. So, remember, if you purchase it from the thrift store it is for décor only.

6. Don’t Buy Appliances
A lot people think that buying appliances at the thrift store is a great way to suit your needs without spending as much money. However, shopping appliances at the thrift store can often cost more than its worth. Sometimes, the items will work for a short period of time, if at all. Usually, if you can find an item that works you’re lucky. However, there is always a risk of fire when you use these items as you don’t particularly know their history and why they were donated. So, if you really need an item try to shop refurbished or save up and purchase it new.

7. Do Buy Music
If you love music and like to collect old mediums of music, then the thrift store may be your new favorite place. Often, thrift stores have a wide assortment of vinyl records, cassettes and CDs to choose from. These items will never be of new quality and you probably won’t be able to sell them for a lot of money. If you’re just looking to enjoy old forms of music, then you’re in for a treat. Of course, before purchasing any item make sure that it isn’t covered in scratches, so you can actually enjoy the music. However, if you do run across items that are broken beyond use, you might consider turning them into cool art pieces. Pursing the music section at your local thrift store might also allow you to enjoy new forms of music too.

8. Don’t Buy Stuffed Animals
It is hard to go into the thrift store with a child and not have the child glued to the toy section. There are lots of amazing toys at the thrift store for your child to choose from, so this might seem harmless. However, if your child wants a stuffed animal then you might want to start directing their attention elsewhere. Stuffed animals are very hard to fully sanitize, so they can spread germs to your child from the moment your child touches it. Since stuffed animals often spend time cuddled up with your child, this probably isn’t something you want in the home. On top of that, these toys can hide many horrible things inside of them. For instance, if the previous owner had bed bugs then you might be in store for battling the bugs in your own home soon after your purchase.

9. Do Buy Books
Most thrift stores have an abundance of books, which is a good thing. Best of all, you can find a wide range of things there, which can certainly help ease a boring day or even help you to study a new subject. From children’s and sci-fi books to text book and almanacs, you might have to double take when you see the prices of some of these books. Sometimes, you might even be able to grab them on sale for a penny, which will help you save money on your entertainment or educational needs. Most books are in excellent shape too, which makes them perfect for homeschoolers. You may even find a few collectibles that will make you swoon over your awesome find.

10. Don’t Buy Helmets
There are many reasons why helmets shouldn’t be on your list of things to purchase at a thrift store. To scratch the surface, when purchasing a helmet, you should always find one that fits you properly. You won’t get as many options for helmets at the thrift store, so if you do choose to find one there it might not protect you in all of the ways it needs to. You also have to worry about head lice when you purchase a used helmet, so it’s safer to just not bother. Of course, the most important reason why you should not purchase a used helmet is it might not work. Helmets are meant to be replaced every five years and there’s no way to gage how old it is. On top of that, a helmet must be replaced after an accident. Although this will usually means you will see damage on the helmet, sometimes the helmet might look unscathed. So, be safe instead of sorry and buy new helmets no matter what you plan to use them for.

Shopping at the thrift store can be a world of fun, especially if you know what to shop for. These ten options will help you find some pretty cool stuff at an unbelievable price, while ensuring you don’t throw money away on items that aren’t worth buying. No matter what you’re shopping for, you’ll be helping out a charity too, which is cause enough for celebration.

Back to School season is here again and the sales have already arrived in most of your favorite stores. Many people struggle with knowing where to shop for the best deals, which can be as difficult as navigating through the packed stores. Luckily, Walmart, Amazon and Target all offer online options that can help you cut back on the amount of time you spend shopping. This should help cut back on the amount of time you spend stressing over school supplies, so you can make the most of the time left with your kids. These ten tips should help you find the majority of your shopping needs, whether you shop online or off, so take a deep breath and prepare for a brand-new year while surfing for the best deals on your child’s school needs.

1. Basic Supplies
There’s a whole lot of basic supplies your child is going to need for school, but these items can add up in the long run. One item that is on the list for most students over the age of ten is pens. You can find outstanding deals on bulk pens on Amazon and Walmart, so you can split up the pens amongst multiple children or even the household. However, if you shop for these bulk pens on Amazon you will have to shop with them as an “Add-On” item, which means you will need to spend $25 to get them for the actual price. Target, on the other hand, does offer the cheapest price for smaller packages of pens. To be more specific, you can find a pack of ten BIC pens for less than a dollar. Walmart is your best bet when it comes to pencils. You can purchase a pack of 12 for less than a dollar, but other more expensive pencil options still range lower in price than Amazon and Target. Walmart and Target both offer amazing deals on paper, with Walmart being only slightly cheaper. Amazon, on the other hand, is not the place to shop for paper.

2. Arts and Crafts
Most children are going to need arts and crafts supplies, especially if they’re in primary school. When it comes to crayons, Walmart has a larger brand name set for just $.87. Both Walmart and Target have a set for $.50 though, so if you don’t need bulk you’re safe to shop at either store. Amazon’s crayons are pretty pricey though. Amazon and Target aren’t the best options when it comes to children’s scissors. So, shop Walmart for these items, especially if you’re looking to spend around a dollar. Glue is another staple for most school lists. The best place to shop for glue is Target with the price ranging around $.50, whereas Walmart’s is $1.44. Amazon’s glue is much more expensive though, but they do offer better bulk deals if you want to buy for the whole household.

3. Organization
Keeping organized is an important part of schooling, especially for students in secondary school or college. So, you’ll want to grab a few items to make your student’s work look great. Notebooks are the perfect item for keeping notes in order or just journaling to improve the schooling experience. Target is one of the best places to grab simple notebooks for students, as you can grab a spiral notebook for a mere $.29. Composition books, which are often required for English and Science courses can be purchased at Target and Walmart for $.50 apiece. Binders are a crucial part of most student’s lives too. These items are a bit of a mixed bag though and range from $3 to $20, so you can shop around to suit your taste and budgeting needs.

4. Nap Time
If you have a preschooler or kindergartener in the home, then you might already be frustrated with the search for the nap time accessories that the school requires. One of the most crucial items to have for your new student is a nap mat. Luckily, both Target and Walmart offer these mats for $10, so you won’t have to spend a small fortune on them. However, if you’re interested in a mat, blanket, pillow combination then you can purchase these items for around $20 to $40 on Amazon and Target. If you’re fine with the simple mat and blanket combination, then you can grab a blanket at Walmart for $5-10 which includes some of your child’s favorite characters. You can even find some options that roll up and serve as pillows too.

5. Lunch Supplies
Lunch can be one of the most important aspects of your child’s school needs. It can also be one of the priciest too. Walmart and Target both offer a wide selection of lunch boxes for $6-15, which should suit most students’ needs. Of course, you can find a more intricate design for around $20 which is perfect for older students and those that participate in athletics. Amazon offers a lot of other options for older students too, which can provide you with a wide variety of compartments and cooling tech. Another great option is bento boxes, which can help you provide well-balanced lunches for your children. Amazon offers an amazing bulk deal that will only set you back $15 and will provide you with enough boxes for the whole family and then some. Sandwich bags are another great option for kids’ lunches. Target is the best place to grab these for $1.79, but if you’re looking for more protection Walmart offers the cheapest price on double-zip bags for around $5. Of course, snacks are going to be touch and go, so shop around to suit your needs.

6. Backpacks
Backpacks are pretty much crucial for every student and they can be one of the costliest items to pick up. However, this year there are many great deals to choose from. All three stores offer unique looks, so you should be able to shop around and still find something that meets your needs. However, if you’re looking for the cheapest option then Target and Walmart are both offering deals as low as $15-20 for some cute styles. Of course, if you’re shopping for a brand name, like Jansport, then Walmart is your best option in most cases. Students that are required to bring clear backpacks to school have several options too, but Amazon offers you the cheapest price at $8.99 with free shipping for Prime members.

7. Other Essentials
Of course, your student is going to need extra items that aren’t on the list and a few items that are specifically for the classroom. One of the most common items that teachers ask for is tissues. Luckily, these prices are pretty even across the board, so you can purchase them wherever you choose to do your shopping. If your student is keen to decorate his or her locker then you’re in luck when it comes to prices. There are lots of options available but Walmart offers a large set for a mere $4. This set comes with a white board, mirror, shelf and so much more that will make your student’s life more efficient. Protractors and compasses are also popular items for most junior and high school students too. These items are pretty evenly priced too, so shop for them whenever you go out for other supplies. Finally, Target offers pencil sharpeners for a mere $.50 that will help your students stay prepared in class without leaving their seat.

8. School Clothing
Clothes are probably the most frustrating and expensive element when it comes to Back to School shopping. However, this year you’ll find some amazing deals that won’t break the bank. Target offers a full range of deals that will help you fill your child’s wardrobe. For instance, you can purchase leggings, tees and even uniform polos for just $5 apiece. They also have denim and full gym outfits for just $8. Walmart offers a wide range of cheap options too. You can purchase uniform dresses and khakis for less than $10 and bulk polos for $18. If your student can dress casually, then you might check out the wide variety of tops, dress and denim that they have for $5 to $15. Amazon is a mixed back when it comes to clothing and prices tend to be a bit higher, especially since the service offers name brands. So, if you choose to shop Amazon for clothes be careful and look around for deals before adding to your cart.

9. Shoes
Students are going to need new shoes to top off their wardrobe too. However, you shouldn’t fret about spending a fortune on these items. Instead, you can shop for great shoes at Walmart, which offers prices between $3-20. These prices even include athletic shoes, which most kids will need to get through gym class and their athletic activities. Target shoes won’t set you back a lot either. You can find cool options between $9.99 and $30, so you should be able to ring in under budget here too. Amazon also offers many great deals on shoes with some of the lowest prices ranging around $13. Amazon also allows you to choose name brand options that you might not be able to find as cheap in other stores.

10. Electronics
Electronics are a large part of today’s student’s lives. One of the most important elements for students in secondary school is graphing calculators, which can cost you a fortune if you’re not careful. Walmart offers some of the best deals on these items, with one of the most popular brands costing you $82, opposed to the $109 that Target and Amazon offer. However, if you want to save more money, you can purchase this calculator refurbished on Amazon for $62. Of course, regular calculators can be purchased at all three stores for just $3.99. Laptops are another great item to have, especially when it comes to high school and college students. There’s great deals around the board, but Walmart offers some of the lowest prices for new models. If you hope to send your child to the dorms with a mini-fridge then Target and Amazon offer the best options at an affordable price.

Back to School shopping doesn’t have to be a nightmare every year. Instead, you can take advantage of the amazing deals that these stores offer. Although one store doesn’t stand out more than any others, you should be able to run off of these tips, so you can maximize your savings whether you shop online or in store.