It’s important to be a smart spender so you’ll have more money to save, invest and donate. You can learn to be a smart spender every time you go to the grocery store with your parents.

Smart spenders begin their shopping at home. First, make a list of everything you are going to buy. Read the sales papers and match what is on your list with current sales going on at the store. Cut out coupons for the items you want to buy and bring them to the store with you. Have a snack before you go to the store. If you’re hungry when you’re at the store you will buy things that you do not need!

Now you’re ready to go to the grocery store. Once you get to the store, become a price detective.

Here’s how:
1. Collect clues about the items you want to purchase. Look at the tags on the shelves located right under things you want to buy. Compare the prices of similar items. Which item is the better value? The label can also clue you in if an item is on sale. You may even be able to get 2 for the price of 1!

2. Buy only what is on your list. Do not buy items that are on sale just because they are on sale. If it's not on your list, don’t buy it!

3. Beware of advertising scams and rip-offs. Don’t just look at the picture on the box, read the label to get the true story about a product. Pictures can be deceiving – they can make you think a product is better than it really is.

If a sale item is out of stock, you can get a rain check. A rain check is a piece of paper that lists the item you wanted to buy and the sale price. The next time the item is available, you will be able to buy it at the sale price.

When you’re shopping, stick to your list. Toy or games will usually cost more if you buy them at the grocery store. When you go the grocery store remember to bring your list, your coupons, and get ready to be a price detective. You might even teach your parents a few things about smart shopping!

Here’s some more info on saving money and smart shopping: