No parent wants to deny their child’s dream of playing soccer, taking karate or hip-hop dance classes, we know how important those experiences are. But the cost of all those sports, lessons, classes and activities can add up fast and before you know it, you’ve spent a fortune on something they may not even be into in two months.
These tips can help you keep your budget under control and still let your kid pursue their extracurricular interests.
- Do your research - Check out the options at community centers, parks and rec departments, libraries and schools to see what affordable or free activities they offer. The local YMCA, 4-H clubs and Boys and Girls Clubs of America and other nonprofits may also offer classes or sports for kids.
- Buy used supplies and equipment - Whether you need uniforms, gear or instruments, you may be able to find it gently used for much less than buying it new. Online marketplaces are a great place to find deals on high-quality items like this.
- Fundraise - A lot of extracurricular programs organize fundraisers to help families offset costs, so get your kid involved in those. You can also do your own fundraiser by letting loved ones sponsor your child and all those little donations add up to save you money.
- Make the most of hand-me-downs - Ask around to see who has uniforms, gear, costumes, instruments or other supplies they don’t need, but your kid could use. And when your child is finished with these things, pay-it-forward and pass the items on to someone else who can use them.
- When in doubt, just ask - It never hurts to ask for a discount, even if one isn’t being advertised. Maybe you could get a referral discount for sending in friends who sign up for lessons, or a group discount for enrolling your kid and their sibling or friends, or a returning student discount if you’ve been loyal to the activity and keep coming back.
Source: Lifehacker
Scott's Thoughts:
- You’ll never get the discount you don’t ask for, so why not try your luck?
- Start off with new and see if they are really going to commit to it.
- What ways have you found to save on extracurriculars for your kids?