The end of summer doesn't offer parents much time to transition. Once fall begins you jump headlong into a series of activities and social events surrounding your student. With so much going on, costs can add up before you even realize. If you're looking for something other than chess, debate, or soccer to help fill your child's after school schedule, try these alternative and affordable after school activities.

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Football season is in full swing and it's the best time of year for tailgating. The weather is mild -- if not still warm in parts of the country -- and spirits are high as teams haven't had a chance to lose their grip on the championship game.

Tickets to the game are pricey enough without the added cost of a pre-game party. That doesn't mean you should forego one of America's favorite pastimes, however, so consider the following ways to save on essential tailgating gear.

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Do you want to know something scary? October 31 is just a few days away. If the cost of Halloween costumes, candies and decor frighten you, don't fear; the following Halloween tips can help you simplify this ghoulish season without spending an arm and a leg.

COSTUMES

DIY

You don't have to be an expert seamstress to make great Halloween costumes. When your kiddos are little, it's especially easy to go the DIY route since they're fairly easy to please. In addition to fabric stores, look to the Domestic Queen for ideas for a creative costume.

Shop Early for Savings

Everyone knows the best deals on Halloween costumes happen after Oct. 31, but what good does that do you right now? Thankfully, some stores offer discounts on costumes before the holiday, when it's actually helpful. For example, you can get a coupon code at FreeShipping.org for 30-percent off costume orders from the The Children's Place.

Rent High-End

Last year, your middle schooler was happy to be a fuzzy tiger. This year, she wants to be Marie Antoinette. When a desired look is beyond your budget, rent one from your local costume store.

Try Consignment

In addition to scouting thrift stores, go to thredUp.com for gently used costumes. While the site doesn't have the size selection of a formal retailer, you can score outfits from such name brand retailers as Carter's and Pottery Barn Kids for less than $10. There's also the additional bonus of using that costume to restock your dress-up closet after Halloween.

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Keeping a preschooler entertained all day in a way that's both enjoyable for her and for me isn't always easy.  That's why I love finding games that we can play together which also help her develop new skills.

I've long been a fan of Peaceable Kingdom's Cooperative Games collection because these games allow you to play together with your child instead of compete against them.  Riley and I recently had the chance to review two award-winning board games from Peaceable Kingdom.  Keep reading to learn more!

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One of the things I love most about giving presents to my daughter is watching her little face light up with excitement and amazement at what she receives.  The "Woohoo Factor" is a powerful thing, for it gives back just as much excitement to me when I see my daughter with it.

With the holidays around the corner, us parents are beginning to search for those precious toys that are guaranteed to give our kiddos the "woohoos"!  That's why ASTRA, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association, is kicking off their 3rd annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day on November 10th, 2012.  Keep reading to learn more!

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