Simple Ways to Save: The simple questions that can help you save on school expenses

School holidays are a good opportunity for parents to catch their breath.

Term 1 was a whirlwind of uniforms and school books and extra-curricular activities and getting used to new routines.

Now it's the April school holidays, and we can take some time to review how the year is going thus far.

Is the 2023 family schedule sustainable? Affordable? If you weren't planning to already, take some time to sit down and review.

Watch the video above to learn how get on top of school expenses this year

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It's not just about whether or not your 2023 family schedule works for your children, but it also has to work for you.

Here are some questions I am asking myself:

Does my daughter need to do seven dance classes?

Should I encourage my son to catch the school bus home more often?

Are there any areas in my family budget where I can cut back?

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2023 is already proving to be a difficult year for most, with cost-of-living reaching an all-time high.

The only comfort is we are all feeling the pinch and we are in this together.

In the latest Simple Ways to Save video, I explain how to get on top of school expenses for the year by planning for the year ahead.

That includes including any and all expenses in the family budget so there are no surprises.

Ideas for planning ahead for the school year include:

• Making regular payments towards school fees;
• Asking about upcoming school events that will require a donation;
• Joining school parents social media groups to buy, swap and sell second-hand items such as uniforms and sporting equipment;
• Shop around for affordable activity providers;
• Redeem state and government children's activity vouchers;
• Use websites like Groupon to find great deals on school holiday activities.

You'll find more Simple Ways to Save here.