Money tight? Here are ways parents can save on after-school activities
October 2, 2008
Comments on this story
(0)
Candice Choi
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW YORK – The itinerary of athletic meets, music lessons, and club activities that's triggered when the school bell rings isn't just chaotic – it comes with a hefty price tag, too.
As the school year gets underway, there are measures you can take to ensure your children's pursuits don't eat away at your household budget. Second-hand sports gear and musical instruments and affordable after-school activities are a few ways to keep spending in check.
The effort will be worthwhile if it means keeping your kids involved in extracurriculars.
"I know that parents are thinking it's a hardship, but it's worth it. Children who have a connection to the arts do better in school, are more engaged and have better attendance," said Jan Harp Domene, national president for the Parent Teachers Association.
Even just one of these options below may help boost your budget this school year.
BUY USED SPORTS AND MUSICAL EQUIPMENT
When it comes to sports, consider going second-hand since children can outgrow gear quickly. You may not want to shell out $120 for new hockey skates, for instance, if your son will only need a bigger size next year.
Beyond the more obvious venues, such as eBay.com, the Salvation Army and garage sales, one place to get used equipment is Play It Again Sports. Used items typically sell anywhere from 40 per cent to 70 per cent off the regular retail price, said Steven Murphy, president of franchising for parent company Winmark Corp. The stores also sell discounted new equipment.
Don't let old equipment sit around the house either – sell it online or at a consignment shop for cash or store credit.
For musical instruction, some schools lease instruments through a music store on a monthly basis. If your child is likely to stick with the trumpet, however, it might save to buy rather than taking the pay-as-you-go method.
Prices for musical instruments vary widely depending on the brand, so be sure to compare the costs of your school's leasing program versus buying.
Independent music stores in your area may sell used instruments. Enlist friends and family, too – you may be surprised to find they still have an old flute or clarinet stored away somewhere.
FIND AFFORDABLE INSTRUCTION
If one-on-one lessons are too expensive, consider some affordable alternatives.
Michelle Menegaz, a 41-year-old mother in San Francisco, signed up for a $10 membership at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America this year so her six-year-old daughter Gabi could take after-school swimming lessons (which cost an additional $5 a month).
"It was prompted by a need to find quality, affordable care," said Menegaz, whose budget ruled out a popular $300-a-month care program offered at her daughter's school.
You could also check out your local branch of the YMCA to see what programs are available and how much a family membership would cost. Certain classes, such as swimming, dance, art and drama, may cost extra.
Girl Guides and Boy Scouts offer a chance for children to participate in programs, with nominal fees charged for special outings or materials.
TAP FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS
Lastly, make it a point to meet other parents in your neighbourhood or at your child's school. It's likely you'll find others looking for ways to budget as well. If your children participate in the same activities, you may save time and gas money by carpooling.
Getting to know other families also widens the pool of people you can tap for hand-me-down equipment, clothes or musical instruments and potential babysitters or tutors.
One way to connect with parents is to go online. You may find your neighbourhood already has a parents group. On Meetup.com, members can search for groups by city or topic, such as "parents," which lists numerous groups centred on an array of specific interests.
Judy Ausuebel of the AP News Research Center in New York contributed to this report.
thestar.com