Tips on how to optimize your back to school shopping this year

Pencils and notebooks are beginning to replace pool toys and slip n’ slides on store shelves. And as July winds down and slowly morphs into August there’s only one thing left to do. Back to school shopping!KATC’s Abby Breidenbach was LIVE this morning with a look at some tips for shoppers before they hit the aisles with their kids.From the school supplies to the new clothes, back to school shopping can be a headache! But it doesn’t have to be. We’ve rounded up some tips to make a trip to the store or online browsing for Back to School supplies less stressful and more fun!     So, whether the kids are jumping for joy or mourning summer’s end, parents can be sure to get everything they need before the school bell rings in August.Stick to the ListStores around town are working to make the process simple. Places like Target and Walmart have shopping lists right at the font of the store so that parents can conveniently grab their list and pick out what they need. To save on hours of wandering the aisles and spending more cash than planned, be sure to stick to that list.Search for DealsMake some time to price compare for deals. Lafayette moms say the best bet with this year might just be joining a parenting Facebook group or talking to with friends. Shoppers are likely to find the best places for bargains and deals when talking with parents who have already taken the plunge and have checked Back to School shopping off their list.Get TrendyWith many Acadiana schools requiring uniforms, kids are expressing themselves by choosing stylish and unique necessities.Items like pencil holders, backpacks, and other trendy accessories are must-grabs for students who want to make a statement when they head back to school. For a lot of us, having a chance to peruse the selection of back to school items is the best part. It’s a great way to get kids involved.Always make sure those items are school approved before making a purchase.Shop OnlineIf the thought of braving the crowds is too much, parents can always do all of their shopping online. Some stores allow online shoppers to use their school’s list and schedule a time to pick up all their items in the parking lot. A useful tip for all those very busy parents.One final school shopping tip:Utilize the Entire StoreShoppers can often find pens, notebooks and fun gadgets in unexpected parts of the store. Stationary departments often have items that make great school supplies. And don’t forget to make a trip to the food aisles to stock up on snacks for lunches and after school!————————————————————Back to School DatesIberia, St. Mary, Lafayette and Acadia parishes will go back to school August 8th.St. Landry and Vermilion parish goes back August 9th. Jeff Davis and Evangeline parish start school on August 10th.St. Martin parish students will return to school on August 14th.