Mom's Savings Bonanza!

Do you find yourself searching for great trinkets to fill baskets, stockings, or just have on hand for that special treat? Are you ever floored by how these little items add up? Look no further for some great money-saving tips to keep your pockets full and your kids happy!

It's easy to keep a stash of supplies on hand if you know when to stock up. There are a lot of great savings to be had for small items for Christmas stockings, Easter baskets, small gifts for a job well done, or any other occasion (think St. Nicholas Day, Valentine's Day, Halloween, birthday goodie bags, or even a back-to-school treat). It's not unusual for flocks of shoppers to fill aisles of sale toys and other big-ticket items, sweeping them up before prices reach rock-bottom; but, while others are focusing their attention elsewhere, it is a great time to hone in on those smaller items that won't be affected by changes in children's taste in a few months or more.

Big box stores like Target have sections dedicated to "stuffer" items, and they go on clearance after every holiday, usually with prices on much of the stock being cut to 70-percent or more. That is the time to get multi-packs of items for trick-or-treat, multiple children's stockings or baskets, and more. If you think outside-the-box, you'll score even bigger, looking at items that are out for Christmas that are season-neutral, and stashing them for Easter baskets, or finding novelty pencils or markers and stocking up on much-needed school supplies. Even big-brand items will make it to the pennies-on-the-dollar clearance, making it a great time to pick up Barbie-minis, Hello Kitty, Thomas and Friends sets, Hot Wheels, and more of those classics that you know your kids will still want. You'll have overflowing baskets for just a few dollars, not to mention a lot of saved time and money down the line. (Everything pictured above came in at under $8. That's 14 dollar-spot items plus 4 larger-ticket stuffers -- 18 items total -- all at 70-percent savings!)

Don't forget to check out dual-purpose items, too. Red or green candies can be separated out and used for Valentine's and St. Patrick's Day celebrations, not to mention that red garland that can be wrapped around a heart-shaped wreath for a festive decoration on the cheap. The pastels that come out at Easter can provide double-duty for baby showers. Those pale yellows, baby pinks and blues, and spring greens can work their magic again!

Now, get out there, and make Santa and the Bunny proud!