Back-to-school purchasing most anxious time of yr – as planning forward can ‘lighten load’
A new study has found that the back-to-school period is the most stressful time of year for parents – with many struggling to find the correct size or required items when they go to the shops
Shopping for back-to-school items can be challenging (Image: Getty Images)
A quarter of parents believe the back-to-school period is the most stressful time of year – even more so than Christmas shopping. A study of 1,000 mums and dads revealed that parents find shopping for everything they need before the school term starts challenging – with shoes emerging as the toughest uniform item to buy.
Over half (54%) of parents have previously had disputes with their children over trying on uniforms, and a third (33%) have lost sleep from worrying about getting everything ready in time. Yet despite recognising it as a stressful period, 28% said they typically do the shopping in the final fortnight of the summer holidays.
Shoes are often the most difficult item to buy(Image: Getty Images)
Footwear retailer Deichmann commissioned the research following the launch of its ‘Buy One Get One Half Price on all school shoes’ offer.
Kylie Griffiths, a wellness expert working with the brand which has also launched a new capsule range of Trutex uniform online and in selected stores, said: “These results demonstrate how stressful the back-to-school period is. Parents are juggling logistics, expectation and emotions all at once – but planning ahead, sharing responsibilities and lowering the pressure to be perfect can all help lighten the load.
“The mental load for parents and caregivers is huge and with growing financial pressures, parents need all the help they can get. Shopping with a list of priorities – fit, function, budget and your child’s input – helps parents feel more confident and less overwhelmed.”
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Parents will fork out an average of £62.71 per year on school shoes for each child, and 59% say they’re finding back-to-school shopping pricier than in previous years.
The research from OnePoll.com revealed that 78% struggle to find the correct size or required items when they hit the shops and 58% make three or more separate shopping trips before everything is bought for back to school.
Josephine Soei, from Deichmann, said: “We know how stressful back-to-school shopping can be and strive to make things as easy as possible for parents.
“By having our stock available ready to select on the shop floor, it helps minimise stress when shopping with children.”
