Moms Talk: How Do You Budget For School Supplies?

Last week in Moms Talk (dads, you're welcome to chime in, too!), we asked if you're happy that McDonald's has decided to offer apple slices in all of its Happy Meals.

We heard from a couple readers on the Berkley Patch Facebook page:

• Renae Downie Little wrote: "We always get the apples. Will I still be able to get a Happy Meal without any French fries??" The answer is yes – plus, the fast-food giant also is downsizing the fry portions that are included in Happy Meals.
• Susan Warrow wrote: "I have never taken my 9- and 6-year-olds to McDonalds or Burger King. lf we do fast food, it's Noodles & Co or Potbelly or Olga's."

This week, we'd like to hear how you plan ahead for the back-to-school spending blitz. Your kids need fall clothes and new supplies and, of course, they want the latest gizmos. How do you balance their needs and wants without busting the budget?