It's that time again - for schoolkids across the country it's the annual decision-making time to figure out which kinds of pencils, pens, folders, markers, and paper is needed for the school year.

I had two personal favorites -- first, that terrific black-and-white composition book -- one for every subject, and then the other all-time cool accessory was the Trapper Keeper -- I had a green one that I loved, with the velcro strap and the ample pockets inside!

Now, as a parent of school-aged children, I'm aware of the costs involved with kitting out my kids for the new academic year, and as a smart mom, I'm compelled to look for deals all around. I've found some amazing resources at www.savings.com, which has great coupons, discount codes, and deals, as well as user-submitted entries on the latest finds.  

So, a checklist for school savings:

School Supplies:

• Pencils
• Eraser
• Ruler
• Compass and Protractor (depends on which math class they're in)
• Black Pens
• Sharpie marker
• Colored markers
• Composition  books
• Folders

Clothes:

• Shirts
• Jacket
• Pants
• Shorts
• Socks
• Shoes
• Gym uniform

Other essentials:

• Laptop computer (if your kid is lucky)
• Calculator
• Dictionary
• Healthy snacks
• Lunchbox (if they bring their own lunch)

Happy back-to-school to all!