Detroit Back-To-School Guide

As summer winds down, kids start dreading and parents start dreaming about the start of the new school year. Getting those little imps ready for the first day of school can be an expensive, and time-consuming, prospect between school supplies, new clothes and trimming those tresses. Back-to-school shopping can cost a small fortune, and the crowds can be just as frantic as those on Christmas Eve. This handy guide offers suggestions for local spots to get the most bang for your buck while minimizing back-to-school shopping stress.

Back to School Rally
Central Detroit Christian Community Development
8840 Second Ave.
Detroit, MI  48202
(313) 873-0064
www.centraldetroitchristian.org

Date: Sat, Aug. 25

An annual event since 2001, the CDC's Back to School Rally provides backpacks filled with school supplies for free to local children. School uniforms are also available for a nominal fee. To keep the kids engaged and entertained, the event features carnival games, food and drink, and inflatable structures. Health and dental screenings will be available, law enforcement officers will be on site to discuss safety issues, and community agencies will provide information on the resources they make available to the community.

Related: Detroit City Council Members Host Back-To-School Fair

Connie's Children's Shop
23200 Greater Mack Ave
St. Clair Shores, MI  48080
(586) 777-8020
www.conniesclothing.com

For more than 65 years, Connie's Children's Shop has been providing Detroit-area children with fashionable quality clothing at reasonable prices. The store features everything a kid might need to go back to school in style, from everyday outfits to fancy party clothes, and pajamas to outerwear. A large selection of shoes are available for boys and girls as well. Connie's also carries school uniforms and offers alterations on them for a small fee. Team gear for Detroit and college sports teams, stuffed animals, puzzles and games round out the selection.

The Funky Frog
121 E. 3rd St
Rochester, MI  48307
(248) 656-1937
www.thefunkyfrogonline.com

One of the frustrations of buying clothes for kids is that they outgrow them so quickly. The Funky Frog recognizes this, and both accepts and sells gently used kids' clothing for a significant savings off retail pricing. The store carries clothes for girls, boys and infants, as well as shoes and books. A play area is set up for kids to use while parents shop. The shop keeps a wishlist of items customers are seeking, and contacts the customer when the items arrive in the store.

Related: Best Kids Clothing Stores In Detroit

J.R.'s For Hair
6025 Rochester
Troy, MI 48045
(248) 879-5616
www.jrsforhair.com

Click here for prices

The Kid's Kuts room at J.R.'s For Hair is designed to help kids relax and have fun while having their hair cut. Seats are camouflaged as boats or frogs, and the shampoo bowl is designed especially for young clients. A TV, toys, and bright-colored fish on the walls provide interest and entertainment, both while kids are waiting for their turn and during the haircut. Parents can take advantage of the hair and nail salon, spa, and massage services.

Motor City Kutz
20852 Hall Road
Clinton Township, MI 48038
(586) 468-3251
www.motorcitykutz.com

Price: $14.95 children's haircut/$11.95 buzzcuts

Children often hate to get their hair cut, but the folks at Motor City Kutz do their best to make the experience fun. With gaming consoles available and TVs at every station, the kids may at least be distracted enough not to mind the haircut. As an homage to Detroit, the kids' stations are car-themed, offering either race cars or Hummers for seating. Motor City Kutz also offers services for adults, so the whole family can share in the experience.