How much does it cost to prepare a child for school in 2023: analysis and tips

Preparing a child for school always requires certain costs, and these costs can vary from year to year. Maksym Oryshchak, an analyst at the Center for Exchange Technologies (CET), spoke about how much prices for school supplies have increased in 2023 compared to last year.

According to the analyst, the cost of preparing a child for school in 2023 increased by 15-25% compared to 2022. However, it is difficult to accurately estimate the price dynamics, as it depends heavily on brands, price segments, and the requirements of a particular school.

For example, the cost of a backpack for a schoolchild in August last year was about 700 hryvnias, while in 2023 it rose to 1000 hryvnias. However, by choosing a more affordable analog for UAH 850-900, parents can save up to 25-30%.

The cost of preparing for school also includes stationery, such as pens, pencils, notebooks, and a pencil case. Prices for these items can fluctuate much more widely. Over the past year, the cost of a basic stationery set has increased by 20-25%, but parents can find budget-friendly counterparts that will save them up to 15-20%.

According to the analyst, parents spend most of their money on school uniforms, which account for 55-60% of all expenses. In 2023, the cost of such a set increased by 20% compared to last year.

To save money, parents should buy school supplies out of season. Usually, this is the first half of winter and late fall, when discounts on school supplies are the highest. The total cost of a basic school kit for a student can be reduced by 15-20%.

In general, preparing a child for school is an important stage for parents, and saving money during this process can be worthwhile and provide additional benefits for both parents and child.