Ensure this holiday season you don't break the bank

The holiday season is filled with wonderful times, good friends and the excitement of your children running to see what those beautifully wrapped presents might contain. However, for some parents the holidays is a stressful time, especially if money is tight and your kids' wish list is a mile long.  Instead of dipping into your savings or maxing out credit cards, plan ahead and look for some great deals to ensure this holiday season you don't break the bank.   Step 1) Create a realistic budget, and stick to it.  Sit down and consider how much money you have to spend on the kids. Avoid opening a new credit card or securing a small loan to provide your kids with an extravagant selection of gifts. Instead, outline a sensible budget that allows you to provide your kids with a memorable holiday season without putting you into enormous debt.  Step 2) Create a list of your children's must-have items, if they haven't already for you.  Look up each item on the list and write down the average price they retail for through the major department stores, including Walmart, Target and on Amazon. Set this as a top price you're willing to spend on the item.  Step 3) Look through the circulars and check on line throughout the weeks before the holidays.  If an item on any of your children's “must-have” list is on sale, consider purchasing it now instead of waiting for the best price possible. The item might be cheaper at another store next week, but it might not be available.  Step 4) Watch for “Black Friday” sale ads.  Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving when many major retailers offer steep discounts on several holiday items, including toys that might be on your child's holiday wish list. If you are planning to shop on Black Friday, check the store's return policy, when their sales begin and be prepared to shop early to score the hottest items. But you may be able to Shop Amazon - Black Friday Deals Week - Big Savings, No Waiting    Step 5) Shop online for the best prices.  Many top online retailers offer discounts on popular items as the holiday season draws to a close. Many retailers offer to ship the items directly to a nearby store at no fee, while others offer free shipping as an incentive. Pay attention to calculate the cost of shipping into the final price to ensure it's not cheaper to purchase the item from a nearby retailer.   Step 6) Purchase quality items that your child will enjoy for several years.  For instance, try to avoid the latest fad toy that won't interest your child in two to three months. Instead, invest your money in a quality item, such as electronics or a book series, that will hold your child's interest, or can be passed down once the recipient outgrows it.  I hope this helps with your shopping for your children this holiday season! All kids are precious! "Mother of the week!" fill out the form to the right to be considered!