Save big in kids’ sports

With school back in session, I’m finding that a big amount of parent talk is rapidly focusing on another upcoming fall sports season, and why not? The kids enjoy it, they get some fresh air, they learn how to work as a team, gain confidence, and best of all, it helps them develop a lifelong love of sports. What’s not to love?

I’ll tell you what’s not to love – the cost. Good Lord! I’m hearing from parents of school age kids shelling out hundreds of dollars (often more) each year to accommodate their kids’ sporting activities, usually because kids have the nerve to grow at least a couple of inches a year and outgrow every speck of last year’s equipment. However, those costs can be slashed. Read on for great tips on keeping the kids engaged in their favorite sports, while still keeping your money engaged in your wallet.

Most kids between the ages of 6-18 are playing sports offered at their school, which is great for cutting down any possible fees. That being said, if your child has a passion for a sport that isn’t offered by your school, get online to find the nearest community centers and see what they offer. Registering early can save anywhere from 10-30 percent. Check with your local YMCA as well to see what they offer — you might be surprised — and the costs are usually very reasonable.

When it comes to sports, one of the biggest expenses is the necessary equipment. If your kids are anything like mine, you can hear them growing. The great news is that every other parent out there is saying the same thing, so their kids are outgrowing their sports equipment too. These lovely growth spurts converge each year with an abundant supply of gently-used sports equipment in your local consignment stores, second hand stores and thrift stores. I’m also hearing great things about places like “Play it Again Sports,” where a huge selection of used equipment awaits you (for just about every sport imaginable), along with a very knowledgeable staff that can help you find the best equipment for your kids.

Another outstanding source of slightly used sports equipment is Craigslist – get online for just five minutes and you’ll see dozens of households within easy driving distance who probably have just what you need, for easily 75 percent off retail (or more)! You know my biggest Craigslist buying rule, but I’ll put it here again — always do Craigslist business in a public place — I like to meet people outside my local supermarket.

Above all else, don’t let rising costs deter you from getting your kids into the fall sporting programs they love. With a few minutes of research, they’ll get the sporting experiences they adore and you’ll get it done for a fraction of retail. Everyone’s a winner.

Frugal on!