 Your child may have a perfectly fine backpack that just needs to be run through the wash. They may have school supplies in that backpack that have not been used or in good condition to use again. It's also a good time to have them try on all their clothes and make a list of what they need instead of buying things they don't. Experts also suggest giving your kids a gift card so they can buy their own school supplies and clothes and learn about spending and budgeting.