A recent study indicates that the financial burden of preparing children for the new school year is exacerbated by children’s persistent requests for the latest gadgets, shoes, and skincare products.
Parents are reporting additional pressure as their kids demand trendy items on top of the standard expenses for school uniforms, sports gear, and other essentials, which strain family budgets during this period when many households are already financially stretched.
Research conducted by Back Market, a refurbished goods marketplace, reveals that parents are facing an average expenditure of £845 on school-related purchases due to their children’s demands.
Over half of surveyed parents consider a new school bag essential, even when the existing one is still usable. Furthermore, around a third of parents are pressured into buying branded sneakers or a new lunchbox, while 28% feel obligated to fund costly school trips for their children.
A significant number of parents have been coerced by their children to provide new school laptops, iPhones, or other smartphones, often influenced by peer pressure and the desire to fit in with classmates.
The rise in children’s demands is partly attributed to social media influence and online marketing of various products, including Stanley Cups and skincare trends.
Despite the mounting expenses, eight out of ten parents express concerns about affording all the necessary back-to-school items for their children.
The survey also highlights that 36% of parents believe there is excessive emphasis on status associated with possessing the latest technology and gear, with a quarter feeling that costs are spiraling out of control.
A substantial percentage of parents report that their children frequently mention that their peers already possess the latest gadgets, adding to the pressure on parents to keep up with perceived trends.
Luke Forshaw, head of brand and marketing at Back Market, emphasizes the financial strain on parents due to the high costs associated with back-to-school tech items. He suggests that opting for refurbished technology presents a cost-effective solution, offering quality devices that are environmentally friendly and budget-friendly.