It is that time of year again to start buying your school supplies. Is it brand name or no name products? Time to make your decisions and decide on which clothing and bags to buy.

Parents whose children are going to school for the first time could benefit from some helpful advice when deciding on which items to buy and where to shop. It is not so much of a problem if your children are going to grade school as you already have some experience.

Five simple tips will save you money and keep you from going crazy.

BUY EARLY

The best things go fast at the discount stores, so don't delay. Start your shopping early in order to find the best deals.

There will be plenty of supplies on sale by August. Don't forget dollar stores for low prices on pens, paper and a myriad of other necessary items.

You will find all you need at office supplies and stationary stores if you are short of time. However, be prepared to pay a bit more.

GET OUT THAT MEMBERSHIP CARD

Ask around and see if your friends with kids or any of your own college classmates need supplies, because you could shop together at a shopping club or bulk store.

You may not need a box of 500 pens or 20 notebooks, but you can buy such items as a group and then split them into portions for everyone. You probably won't be able to buy everything this way, but for the essentials it's a great way to save money.

CHECK YOUR SCHOOL

If your school hasn't already brought in a pre-packaged purchasing system, ask. If each class has a standard package then parents and students can split the costs of the bulk order.

Not only will this mean great savings - it also saves you all the hassle of finding supplies, shopping around or dealing with complaints about brands or colors.

END OF SEASON BARGAINS

End of season sales provide a cheap way of getting your summer sporting clothes. Great deals on gymnastics and swimming gear can be had at these sales.

Winter wardrobes can built from your kids school clothing if you choose multi-use clothing. The likes of cropped trousers can be tucked into high boots, skirts worn with thick tights and tank tops under shirts.

As a note of caution: make sure you're aware of school dress codes when making fashion choices. Some schools forbid bare shoulders or skirts shorter than a required length.

CHOOSING A GOOD BAG

Don't forget the bag! Kids bags are often far too large and heavy for them which leads to sore muscles and even headaches. Always choose a backpack that sits no lower than the waist and look for styles with padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for added support.

Properly worm backpacks should be used for heavy books and not slouchy purses or hobo bags. If bags or sacs are to be used then make sure that you get one with a fitted strap that crosses the body. This will help spread the weight.

It's another school year, but don't stress yourself! This is an exciting time full of wonderful opportunities. Have fun, and enjoy yourself while doing your back-to-school shopping!