Many parents are often overwhelmed by their children’s demands for brand names including school bags costing up to $80 and beyond.  

Retail chain stores are offering budget options for parents who still feel the weight of their costly Christmas turkey lingering on their palate and wallet.  

Callala Bay resident Anna Gardner was recently shopping for good value with her 16-year-old nephew, Jayson Gardner and 15-month-old son, Dane Gardner.

“You know that the school shopping is coming around and it’s always just after you’re getting over the Christmas expenses,” she said.

“This is all just another pressure, especially looking after a young one and with work.”

Mrs Gardner said it was easy for expenses to add up.

“You think that it’s cheap at the start purchasing items here and there for $1.50 but by the time you reach the register you’ve spent nearly $200,” she said.

“Nothing ends up lasting and kids outgrow their clothes and shoes plus you have school expenses and fees.

“Everyone always goes in at the last minute to shop so you end up fighting over the last eraser.”

Callala Bay resident and mother of three, Samantha Baker was also aware of the costs involved.

“I have three children, two who are in high school and one who is in primary,” she said.

“Mine aren’t too bad but I do know that it does happen where often parents are pressured by their children to want items that have got brands.

“And as a parent you don’t want your kid to feel like the odd one out.”

Handy tips include following a set school list so that an excess of spending is limited to the exact needs of the child.

Mrs Baker said school shoes and clothes were probably the biggest expense when it came to shopping for her children.

“I am more than happy to pay for what my children need and to be honest my children aren’t bad at all. 

“After so many years I have realised what costs are involved, it is just unfortunate that all these costs come straight after Christmas.”

Early shopping, checking catalogues and online shopping are all methods that can help make sending the kids back to school as easy as 1,2,3.