Finding Inexpensive Clothes for Slightly Older Kidsby Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger 26 May 2009 05:02 AM
One of the biggest reductions in costs for us was baby clothes. There is a wealth of great quality and great looking used clothes that could be had at thrift stores, yard sales and from generous friends. It was very rare that I would actually buy a children's outfit for my kids at a normal retail store. Being able to have nice used clothes is a blessing for us. It has allowed us to afford things such as food and a larger vehicle to transport everyone. One of the issues I have now, though, is that our first born child is nearly eight years old. At this age, finding gently worn used clothing for him is a big challenge. There are two reasons why it has become difficult. The first is that boys of this age are pretty tough on their clothing. They tend to be in the same size for a while, and the activity level goes way up. Shoes get worn in a matter of months from using scooters and bikes, and even jeans get worn or ripped from the usual climbing, running, sports and general playing. So, the inventory of used clothes available at this age generally consists of either "church" clothes that were worn only a few times or clothes that are so far gone that you can hardly recognize them as clothing items. The second reason is that at this age, kids are starting to be aware of fashion, even boys. There are certain things that are in or they are out. And while I don't want to raise kids who are obsessed with fashion, the reality is that kids need to find their place in the world with their social network, so there has to be some consideration within reason. Nylon sports pants are in, while black jeans are out, for example. Check back for part 2 and some tips on finding clothes for older kids. Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right. Favorite Deal Websites: Related Articles: How to Get First Pick at Outgrown Sales Creating a Rich Environment for Kids 36 Money Making Ideas for Kids and Teens Setting Nintendo Wii Parental Controls Controversial Device Repels Teenagers Learn more about Mary Ann Romans  Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat. Relevantfrugal tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Discuss this article
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