We are trying to start getting ready for school  next year and I am laying out what each child is going to need.  I am pretty sure what they need for each grade even before the lists come out later this year.  We are also figuring out what kind of clothes everybody is going to need. I have been watching Layaway Programs Online to see if I could start getting things for the kids.  I believe I can budget and have everything bought and paid for before July of this year.  That will really help to not be so strapped in August and September.