How to Transition Your Kids’ Wardrobes As They Grow

August has arrived, which means that back-to-school season is in full swing! Have you made your shopping list yet? In addition to supplies like notebooks, pencils, and crayons, chances are your kids will need some new clothes to start the new school year off on the right foot.

It’s no secret that kids grow fast, making it difficult to keep their closets updated before they outgrow their outfits. Buying new clothes throughout the year can also get pricey, but thankfully, Ohio Valley Goodwill is here to help!

Here are a few tips to help you shop smart and simplify your child’s closet as they grow:

 Get ready for growth spurts

If your child is going through a rapid growth spurt, they may be outgrowing their clothes within a few weeks or months. The good news is that you can prepare for these sudden changes by buying a size or two larger than your child’s current size when you shop at Goodwill. Because everything is priced affordably at Ohio Valley Goodwill’s retail stores, you can get several adorable outfits your kids will eventually grow into.

Boys’ outfits from Goodwill

Dresses for girls from Goodwill

Another positive is that since kids grow so fast, the clothes you find at a thrift store like Goodwill are often barely worn or sometimes in new-with-tags condition! That’s all the more reason to stock up and save time and money in the long run.

Don’t forget about shoes!

It’s not just clothes that kids outgrow; they also stretch out of their shoes quickly! Before the new school year, take inventory of your child’s current shoe collection and see what still fits. If it’s time to update their shoes for school, head to your local Goodwill store! From sneakers to slip-on loafers, oxfords, and dress shoes, you can find a variety of shoe options for kids of all ages and sizes when you shop at Goodwill. Check back often to explore our ever-changing selection of shoes and score a great deal in time for back-to-school season.

Back to School!

Backpacks from Goodwill

While you’re at it, check out Goodwill’s school-ready accessories. You can often find backpacks and lunchboxes in like-new condition in our stores!

 Donate whatever your kids outgrow

As you get ready for back-to-school season, take the time to gather up any clothing, shoes, accessories, books, backpacks, and toys that your child no longer wants or needs. You can even get your kids involved in this process and ask them to choose the items they want to donate and put them into a designated box or bag. Then, donate it all to Goodwill! Your child will have a cleaner closet, and you’ll know exactly which items need to be replaced.

Shopping at and donating to Ohio Valley Goodwill provides a powerful teachable moment for kids. The next time your family visits Goodwill, talk to your child about how their donations and purchases will go on to help people in their local community find jobs and build their careers. Then, encourage them to continue finding clothes or other items they want to donate to Goodwill throughout the year! Your child will learn the value of saving money, repurposing and recycling gently-used goods, and helping others in need.

Kids’ clothes at Goodwill!

Find your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill donation center or retail store today, and be sure to bring your kids along!