I am always impressed by how frugal kids become when it’s their money they’re spending.  Nathan and Ryan received their clothing budget and have started shopping.  Neither one has spent all their money yet.  But that’s okay, it’s theirs to use until spring when they get a smaller budget for summer  clothes.

Here’s what I love.  Both boys have been shopping sales and using coupons.  In fact, they don’t want to spend any money at all unless there’s some sort of deal.  And lucky for them, in this economy, retail has been offering some pretty good deals.

Nathan used a $20 off coupon at his favorite clothing store, Pacsun.  He had to spend at least $40 to get the deal.  That was a pretty good deal since he chose several t-shirts that came to just over $40.  And Ryan used a 15% off coupon at Kohl’s.  So that’s where he bought the bulk of his items.

But here’s the interesting thing.  The two boys have done most of their shopping together.  So I’m not around to make sure things like shoes actually fit.  Ryan came home with a pair that are one size too big.  It was the only size left.  And the basketball shorts he bought will fall to his ankles the moment he slam dunks.  He insists both are fine.

Nathan bought a hat similar to one he already owns, I reminded him.   “Oh yeah,” he says.  He’s planning on returning it.

So I sent them out into the world to learn about staying within budget.  But they may be learning a few other things as well.   As far as I’m considered, I think I got a bargain.