Tips for Back to School Shopping...and a chance to win a Sears gift card

Last week I received a gift card from Sears*, and it was a perfect excuse for a Back to School shopping extravaganza.  I usually avoid clothes shopping with my boys, but I thought it would be fun to let them pick out a couple of special items this year.  I followed a few "back to school shopping tips", and we had a great time.

Here are my top tips for shopping with kids:

1)  Keep it short.  -- Little ones do not love browsing.  Pick one store, and when they start to get tired, leave.

2)  Plan ahead.  -- Make sure the children are well rested and well fed before you leave the house.  Tired and hungry children do not make very good shopping companions.  (A few snacks in your purse might come in handy too.)

3)  Make it fun. -- If you want the kids to stay interested, make it about them.  (This is not the time to hang out in the ladies section looking for the perfect pair of pants.)  I let my boys pick out two shirts each, and they really enjoyed choosing items that fit their personal styles and interests.

I think we all have special back to school shopping memories from our own childhood, and I think my boys had a great time picking out their own "just for school" new clothes from Sears.  My seven year old loves his "brand name" clothes and new backpack, my six year old is thrilled with his "sports team" shirts, and my four year old thinks his "graphic tees" are awesome.  

And, as a mom, I was really happy with the prices and selection at Sears' new Kids Room.  (I also love the KidVantage lifetime wear out warranty and Price Match Guarantee.)

What is your best "back to school shopping" tip?  Do you like taking your little ones with you, or do you prefer to leave them at home?

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

PS (You should totally check out the Sears "Back We Go" Facebook contest that's live now! Enter for a chance to win one of five weekly $500 Sears gift card prizes and 35 daily $50 Sears gift cards to put towards your back to school shopping! To enter the contest, "like" the Sears Facebook page and enter your info here. Good luck!)

*Disclosure: I am part of the Sears Back to School Blogger Campaign with Mom Central Canada, and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on the blog are my own.