As back-to-school shopping season gets underway, a new poll is indicating Canadian parents have higher stress levels during this time period.
According to MasterCard Canada’s survey, nearly two-thirds of respondents find facing the crowds of people shopping for their kids to be anxiety-inducing.
But Cathie Mostowyk, founder of the Shoestring Shopping Guide, said this shouldn’t be the case.
“Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be so stressful,” said Mostowyk. “Simple things like making a list in advance, shopping for some of the basics on your own without the kids and choosing the right time of day to venture out can help you pass the back-to-school shopping stress test with flying colors.”
Mostowyk offers additional shopping tips. For instance, she says parents should budget their money and set limits as to how much they’re going to spend. Further, Mostowyk suggests doing a home inventory. This can help parents determine if they already have something.
Clutter may also contribute to stress levels. Parents may want to purchase a portable storage container as a result, which can house the clothes their kids either don’t wear or have grown out of.