Are extracurricular expenses out of control in GA? Try hacks to get more for your money

Parents of children participating in extracurricular activities can spend up to $2,292 per child, each year on fees, supplies and equipment. The added expenses can create a financial burden on unprepared families, especially families with multiple children with varied activities, but there are ways to avoid financial ruin.

Many parents are reluctant to cut the budget for extracurricular activities because of the importance to the child’s social standing, developmental benefits, or even community engagement despite the financial commitment. Before overextending, parents can find ways to keep the spending to a minimum.

If your child has been doing the same activity or playing the same sport for a long time, you know how expensive it can get. They can outgrow equipment and uniforms, forcing parents to buy new supplies every year.

If your child is undecided on the extracurricular activity, look for cost-effective choices.

Choose activities with no supplies or player fees.

• Local drama clubs

• Debate clubs at school

• Yearbook or newspapers at school

• Kickball

• Frisbee golf

Some community-based organizations offer activities.

• YMCA

• Chattahoochee Valley Libraries

• Columbus Museum

• Coca-Cola Space Science Theatre

• Oxbow Meadows

Look for retailers who buy or sell used equipment:

• SidelineSwap : This is a website/app that offers peer-to-peer transactions to buy and sell new and used sports equipment. Sellers post pictures of the equipment and ship it to the buyers, who pay for shipping and handling. Sellers get paid once the item is delivered and accepted. There is a 12% fee for first-time sellers, but the fee goes down after multiple transactions.

• Play It Again Sports : Although the closest location is in Opelika, it could be worth the drive if you can save money on the items you need.

• SwapMeSports : This is an online community that allows participants to buy, sell, donate or find sports equipment. It’s free to join and there is also an option to post and view community events.

You may have to do a little legwork to reduce the money spent.

• Volunteer — some organizations offer discounts to families who volunteer to do work.

• Ask for information about discounts or scholarships.

• Community Foundation of Chattahoochee Valley

• Junior League of Columbus

• Research do-it-yourself activities.

There are other options if you’re willing to do a little research.

• Facebook Marketplace

• EBay

• Craig’s List

• Various thrift and antique stores

• Consignment stores and events

Do you have any tips or tricks for avoiding those big bills for activities and sports? Sound off in the comments, or you can email me or find me on Instagram.