Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/894718
www.FredParent.NET 25 When looking for a specific gift idea, I hit the internet. I search for the gift, compare prices, check for coupon codes and have it delivered to my door or the recipient's door free of ship- ping and handling fees. Here are a few more of my smart shopping tips: One final tip is to help your children know the difference between needing so mething and wanting it. I count myself lucky that I don't have to fight over the newest toy or gadget on the market. I believe mostly because they don't watch TV with commercials and aren't constantly being bom- barded with consumerism that they don't have the "I want" mentality. With a little encouragement, your kids can also love what they have without wanting everything else they see. SET A BUDGET How much do you have to spend? Have cash ready for the purchase but pay with a credit card to give yourself that extra layer of protection if something is wrong with the product. Don't go into debt. Pay off the credit card balance when due. 1 RESEARCH Before making a purchase shop around to ensure you are getting the best deal. 2 SAVE YOUR MONEY Use coupons, loyalty cards and free shipping to save additional money. 3 DON'T MAKE IMPULSE BUYS While some people don't consider gift cards personal or as last-minute gift ideas, I happen to love receiving gift cards. I like to save them and chunk them together to buy a much sought-after, coveted item that I have vigilantly watched since before my birthday and have finally figured out how the store will pay me to take it home. 4 Use coupons, loyalty cards and free shipping to save additional money.