Parents Advise On Making Pocket-Friendly Choices As School Reopen

As the back-to-school season approaches, many Nigerian parents face the challenge of balancing their children’s needs with financial realities. But with some smart strategies, parents can prepare their children for school without breaking the bank. Nigerian parents share practical tips on cutting costs, reusing, shopping smart, and more with THE WHISTLER.

1. Cutting Coat According to Cloth: Cutting one’s coat according to one’s cloth is a wise approach for parents preparing for the back-to-school season. Some parents sometimes try to do things for their children because they see their friends and neighbours doing the same. Such acts could put the parents under pressure to meet their children’s needs. Speaking to THE WHISTLER on how she makes ends meet, a parent and civil servant in the Federal Capital Territory, Vivian Udegbunam stated that parents should be realistic about their financial situation and prioritize needs over wants.

“You must not buy new things for your kids to go back to school with. You must not do what others are doing. Just do what works for you,” she advised.

She explained that she had once changed the school of her children to a nearby school where they would trek to the school because she didn’t have enough money to sustain the school bus fee her children paid in their former school.

“I had peace of mind when I did this. My husband and I just had to pay for school fees and other things. This is the definition of cutting your coat according to your cloth, “ she said.

She added that when parents take the time to assess their finances, they can determine what they can afford to spend on back-to-school essentials. She urged parents to set a budget and stick to it, adding that prioritizing needs over wants is very important.

2. Reusing and Recycling: This is another move for parents looking to save some cash and reduce waste. Udegbunam advised parents to inspect their children’s school supplies and reuse items in good condition to cut down on unnecessary spending.

“When the school was about to resume, I had wanted to buy new socks and school bags for my children but when I checked my finances, I soaked all the socks with hypo and hot water. I took all the bags to a woman I know who fixes bags,” she shared.

She advised parents to scour their homes for items that can be repurposed for their kids. “Last year’s backpack might still be in good condition, or a sibling’s old uniform could be a perfect fit for the younger one. Shoes and lunchboxes can be reused to save money,” says the mother of five.

3. Shop Smart: Another parent, Grace Imadi says that it is best for parents to shop smart by making the most of their budget, shopping strategically, and avoiding impulse buys.

Imadi’s approach to shopping is a great example, ” Buying in bulk is a smart way of shopping and has helped me a great deal. I buy essentials like pens, pencils, and notebooks in bulk and give them to my children whenever they are needed.”

Imadi who is a mother of two, also advised parents to consider buying from second-hand stores for affordable options.

“I went to get my children’s sneakers from these boutiques but could not afford the huge prices. So I went to the second-hand market at Gwagwa and was able to get affordable and quality shoes for my children. I also got good blue jeans which they wear every Friday to go to school,” she explained.

4. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others: “Not comparing yourself to others is a breath of fresh air for Nigerian parents navigating the back-to-school season,” Udegbunam noted while advising parents to stop putting themselves under pressure. “You are not in competition with anyone, so stop putting yourself under pressure,” she said.

She noted that comparing can lead to unnecessary stress and pressure to keep up with others, even when it doesn’t make financial sense.

“ For instance, just because another parent is buying brand new school kits doesn’t mean you have to. Your children don’t need the latest trendy backpack or shoes to fit in,” she advised.

5. Communicating with Your Children: In all this, it is important for parents to communicate with their children, which is key to navigating the back-to-school season in Nigeria. When parents talk openly with their kids about school expectations, finances, and needs, it helps everyone be on the same page.

For instance, parents can explain the budget constraints and involve kids in making decisions about what to buy or prioritise.

“I speak to my children when things get hard. I thank God that they understand me. This helps the children to understand why certain choices are made and teaches them about financial responsibility. It also opens up a space for kids to express their needs or concerns about school.

“Involve them in finding affordable solutions. This helps them understand the value of money and the importance of making smart choices,” Imadi said.

Imadi added that communicating with children can also help manage expectations and reduce pressure on parents.

“ If children understand the plan, they are more likely to be understanding and cooperative. It is a great way to build trust and strengthen the parent-child bond,” she noted.
Communicating effectively, parents can ensure their children feel heard and supported, making the back-to-school transition smoother for everyone.