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Homeschoolers can find a good deal on school supplies by looking in the right places.
Homeschoolers often have big needs and small budgets. However, a little careful planning helps to stretch a tight budget a long way. There are many places to look for supplies of all kinds for all ages.
- Second-Hand Bookstores - Places that sell used books range from the small mom-and-pop store to major franchise resale shops. No matter what the size, a little looking can unearth great finds for the homeschooler. Textbooks, curriculum, workbooks: books of every kind are there to be had. Of course, there are no guarantee that second-hand bookstores will have exactly what you need or want. Go with an open mind and a general idea of your curriculum needs. Be sure to check books to make sure they are not written in. Great second-hand finds: Logic problem books, beginner piano books, older novels and stories, new workbooks. Advantage: a fraction of big-store prices.
- Discount Stores - Again, these range in size from behemoth to small and offer a variety of bargains. Dollar stores can unearth a surprising number of little nuggets at a small, small price. Favorite finds here are: puzzles, pencils, classroom manipulative, classroom wall hangings (days of the week, weather), educational toys (bug catching equipment). Other types of discount stores may sell things from office supplies to computers. It is time consuming to go from store to store, but a little investment of time may yield a worthy savings. Good to purchase at discount stores: paper, pencils, binders, notebooks, school supplies (like scissors, glue, markers, etc...), and office supplies (staples, computer paper, etc...).
- The Internet - The Internet has a huge number of stores right at your fingertips. Of course, what was once one of the most popular sites for homeschoolers to browse has made things difficult. However, despite the victory of publishing companies and educational authorities in the matter of selling "Teacher's Edition" books, eBay remains a place for homeschoolers to find a bargain on curriculum. There are many more stores than eBay, fortunately. From the publishing companies themselves to homeschool curriculum stores to third-party stores, there are many options when it comes to on-line buying. It does take a little time to cruise the web world for good deals in curriculum, but the outcome is worth it. One important note - make sure you consider shipping costs when ordering online.
- Homeschool Fairs - This may or may not be an option depending on where you live. If you have a homeschooling conference or fair in your area, this can be a great place to pick up deals straight from the publishing companies and manufacturers. Visit all the booths to find the best deals. You might find yourself coming away with a new idea or two!
- Friends - Never underestimate the power of networking. Homeschooling friends are a great source to check when in need of textbooks or curriculum (not so much for school or office supplies). Need a particular math book? Perhaps another family is not using that one at the moment, and can lend it to you for a year. Sometimes families outgrow a curriculum or textbooks. Many are willing to share for free or offer for an exchange (like - Trade you my Saxon Math for your "Story of the World"?). If sharing for free does not work, they may sell it to you, a friend, for a much reduced rate. Be careful - if borrowing a book from an acquaintance or friend, take extra-good care of it!
- Homeschool Networks - Similar to friends, any homeschool group you belong to may have suggestions, ideas, or resources. Be sure to check around for what you need. Be up-front and kind. The homeschooling community in general is a generous, close-knit group. Respect that and make no demands.
The copyright of the article Homeschool Shopping in Homeschooling is owned by Christine Alcott. Permission to republish Homeschool Shopping in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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