From Splash Pads to School Supplies: Mastering the End-of- Summer Budget Shift

August 27, 2025

It’s hard to believe summer is already winding down. Our summer bucket list still feels full, and like many families, we’re trying to squeeze in every bit of fun before the school year kicks off.

This year, though, we’ve approached summer differently. With our new budget in mind, we made intentional changes to how we plan and enjoy our activities. For example, instead of relying on concession stands, we pack lunches and snacks ahead of time. With three kids, the cost of eating out adds up quickly, $30 for three carnival corn dogs is no joke!

We’ve also been choosing activities more carefully to stay aligned with our financial goals. One of our favorite discoveries this August has been Dane Dances, a free Friday night event on top of the Monona Terrace, where the whole family can enjoy great live music without spending a dime.

Our focus has shifted toward meaningful, low-cost family time rather than jamming our weekends with pricey events that leave us hot, tired, and overwhelmed. One of our favorite lowcost traditions is visiting my sister’s house, she has a pool, and even though it’s a 40-minute drive, the only real cost is gas (plus the occasional bottle of wine to enjoy poolside while the dads play with the kids in the water).

Another blessing this summer: my parents recently bought a cabin a couple of hours north. We’ve already spent two weekends up there enjoying nature, family time, and good company. We know we’re lucky to have access to this getaway, and in return, we help out with property upkeep. It’s a win-win: quality time together with minimal spending.

Back-to-School Mode: Budgeting Smart

Now that summer is wrapping up, we’re officially in back-to-school mode. To keep costs low, we’ve been hunting for deals in creative ways. I found cleats, a soccer backpack, and a ball for our son’s fall season, all through Facebook Marketplace. Throughout the summer, I also picked up school supplies at garage sales, stocking up whenever I saw a good deal.

One unexpected cost this fall: childcare. As I finish my final year of school, we need to find daycare for the twins two days a week. Up until now, I’ve stayed home with them and relied on help from our parents, but this semester, that support isn’t available. As a single-income household, the idea of double daycare costs is daunting. I’m actively researching scholarships and grants to help us manage, while trying to find affordable care options that won’t blow up our budget.

Midway Motivation Check-In

We’re now halfway through our financial challenge, and we can definitely feel things slowing down. At the beginning, our momentum was high, we were saving aggressively and paying off debt quickly. But as I mentioned in my last post, life hit us hard recently, and we haven’t been able to save as much.

That said, we’re not giving up. We’re brainstorming ways to refocus our energy, find our motivation again, and ramp up our savings next month. Even small steps count.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re feeling the same pressure as back-to-school season ramps up, you’re not alone. As summer fades and the school year begins, take a few minutes to review your budget, set a few realistic goals, and give yourself credit for all the progress you’ve already made. It’s a stressful time for many families.

The good news? There are great resources out there to help you make the most of your budget.

Check out this helpful article from Summit Credit Union: