Back to school season is just around the corner. The relaxing days of summer will soon be replaced with hectic school schedules, car-pooling and extra curricular activities. But between now and then lies the time-honored tradition of the back to school shopping excursion.

For many parents, back to school shopping can be overwhelming. Driving your child from store to store in search of the perfect backpack and the latest technology accessories can be enough to make you dizzy. In the face of a tough economy, this back to school season could be particularly challenging as families grapple with ways to save money and increase value.

But back to school shopping does not have to be stressful or frustrating. By implementing smart shopping tactics, parents can get their kids the cool and stylish products that they want, and also stay within their budget. It also provides parents with a terrific opportunity to teach kids important values and decision-making skills.

"Think of shopping for back to school essentials as helping your kids further develop their decision-making skills while also providing them with an outlet for expressing their creativity and individuality," shares parenting expert Dr. Michele Borba.

That's why Office Depot and Dr. Borba have compiled a variety of useful tips to give parents the tools they need to help balance kids' back to school wants with family needs. This guide provides top tips for advising kids on important essentials - such as how to buy a backpack that will be as good to their bodies as their sense of style, and how to find great splurges at terrific prices.

"Kids will love the great assortment of trendy, "must-have" fashionable products at Office Depot, including exclusive designs not found anywhere else. And, parents will love Office Depot because it is a one-stop shopping destination for all school supplies."
~ Michele Borba, Ed.D.