“Mum, my shoes are too tight.”

“I need a new sports shirt.”

“Teacher said we have to bring money next week.”

If you have schoolgoing children, these conversations probably sound familiar. Sometimes, they all happen in the same week, just when the money left in your account is meant for groceries.

You knew school was starting. But buying for two or three children at once can make the total feel much bigger than expected.

Small purchases add up quickly

Shoes, uniforms, stationery, bags and other essentials may seem manageable individually. Put them together, and the total tells a different story.

Then there is transport, food and any other payments communicated by the school.

It helps to look beyond the shopping list. If your budget only covers uniforms and shoes, the expenses that arrive after the first day can catch you off guard.

Open the wardrobe before visiting the shops

Ask your children to bring out their uniforms, shoes and stationery.

Which clothes still fit? Is the schoolbag worn out, or does it only need a zip repaired? Are the coloured pencils still usable? Are there unused exercise books tucked away somewhere?

You may discover that some items on your shopping list are already sitting at home.

A new school session does not mean everything needs replacing. What matters is that your children have suitable, comfortable items they can use.

Separate what they need from what they would like

Shoes that hurt need replacing. A perfectly usable bag that suddenly looks less exciting than a friend’s new one can wait for a conversation.

Children may not understand why you agree to one purchase and postpone another. Explain it simply.

“We’ll get your shoes this month because your feet are hurting. Your bag still works, so we can plan for that later.”

These everyday conversations help children understand that money has limits and some purchases come first. There is no need to make them feel guilty for asking.

Start saving before the long list arrives

Suppose your children’s school essentials are expected to cost RM900. With six months to prepare, that works out to RM150 a month.

This is only an example. Your target should reflect your family’s needs and what you can realistically afford.

Keep the money in a separate savings pot or account. If RM150 feels difficult, start with an affordable amount and consider which items you can buy gradually.

Be careful about buying uniforms and shoes too early. A promotional price offers little value if your child outgrows the item before school starts.

Leave something for the weeks that follow

After buying the main items, try to keep a small amount aside for needs communicated later.

School information may arrive in stages. Some room in your budget can make the next message feel less stressful.

If there is still a shortfall, speak to the school early. Ask about available assistance or whether arrangements can be made for certain payments. You do not have to wait until the situation becomes urgent.

Preparing for school is not a competition to buy the most or the newest. The aim is to send your children to school with what they need while keeping the household budget steady.

With a little put aside along the way, “Mum, school is starting soon” may become a conversation you feel more ready to have.