As the new school year approaches, parents and students alike are gearing up for a new year of extracurricular activities and sports. These opportunities can help students build confidence, develop new skills, stay connected to their peers, and even strengthen future college applications. But they can also bring a long list of extra costs.
In Salem-Keizer Public Schools, for example, 2025–26 high school athletic fees were listed at $100 per season, with a $600 family maximum per year. Middle school athletic fees cost about $20 per sport, but those participation costs are only part of the picture. Gear, uniforms, equipment, private lessons, travel, snacks, and other expenses can stretch the budget even further. So, it’s no surprise that a 2024 report from the Aspen Institute’s Project Play found that families spent an average of $1,016 on their child’s primary sport.1 For families trying to balance those costly activities with the rest of their household expenses, a little planning can help.
Why Are Extracurriculars So Important?
Research has long connected extracurricular activities and sports with positive outcomes for students, from stronger social skills and confidence to a greater sense of belonging and community. Participation in these activities can also enhance academic performance, encourage healthy lifestyles, and even influence their future career choices.
So, how can families plan for these important but sometimes expensive activities? Start with a few practical steps.
1. Assess Your Finances
Before committing to activities, take a close look at your overall financial situation. Identify your income, essential expenses, and savings goals. This will give you a clear picture of how much you can comfortably allocate to extracurricular activities and sports.
2. List Potential Activities
Make a list of all the extracurriculars your child is interested in. Estimate and include any associated costs-such as registration fees, uniforms, equipment, travel expenses, and other less obvious costs. This list will help you prioritize and make informed decisions.
3. Prioritize and Choose Wisely
Not all activities carry the same cost or level of commitment. Discuss with your child which activities are most important to them. Prioritize these and consider choosing one or two activities to focus on. This can help manage costs and ensure your child isn't overwhelmed.
4. Create a Budget
Once you have a clear idea of the activities and their costs, create a detailed budget. Include all anticipated expenses and set aside a specific amount each month to cover these costs. This approach will help you avoid any financial surprises and make it easier to track your spending. To streamline things, open a dedicated savings account to pool funds for upcoming activities.
5. Ask About Discounts, Scholarships, and Payment Options
Many organizations offer discounts, scholarships, or financial aid for extracurricular activities and sports. So, don’t hesitate to ask about these opportunities. In Salem-Keizer, for example, students with financial barriers can pay a reduced fee ($50) for their first and second sports by filling out an athletic fee discount application.
Other local schools may also offer family caps or assistance. Silverton High School, for example, lists participation caps and notes that no student will be denied participation in a sport due to financial reasons. So, contact your child's school, coach, or athletic department for current details.
6. Consider Second-Hand Equipment
For sports and activities that require special equipment, consider buying second-hand items. Many online marketplaces and local stores (like Play It Again Sports) offer gently used equipment at a fraction of the cost of new items. This can significantly reduce your expenses while still providing your child with the necessary gear.
7. Get Creative with Fundraising
Encourage your child to participate in fundraising efforts to help cover some of the costs. This can include bake sales, car washes, or other creative ventures. Not only does this ease the financial burden, but it also teaches your child valuable skills in entrepreneurship and responsibility.
8. Plan for Hidden Costs
Extracurricular activities often come with hidden costs, such as travel, snacks, and special event fees. Factor a cushion into your budget for unexpected expenses to avoid any last-minute surprises. Setting aside a small contingency fund can help cover these hidden costs.
9. Review and Adjust Regularly
Remember that budgets are not set in stone. Regularly review your budget and upcoming expenses to ensure you are staying on track. If you find that certain activities are costing more than anticipated, be prepared to make adjustments. Flexibility is key to maintaining financial stability while supporting your child's interests.
10. Encourage Free and Low-Cost Activities
Not all valuable extracurricular activities come with a high price tag. Encourage your child to explore free or low-cost options, such as community sports leagues, school clubs, or volunteer opportunities. These can provide enriching experiences without straining your budget.
Want more money-saving back-to-school tips?
- Check out our article on Money-Saving Back-to-School Shopping Tips.
- Learn how to stay safe from back-to-school shopping scams.
- Get some Back-to-School Meal Planning Tips for Busy Families.