My boys haven’t written their letters to Santa yet, but that doesn’t mean I can’t get started seeking out the perfect presents for Christmas day. While some folks wait for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, I scoop up great deals on the popular toys my little guys love at the children’s consignment sales events going on right now. (It’s even possible to make money off kids consignment sales!)

How I save money on toys and gifts for Christmas

Shop early, score big

Want to get first dibs on the good stuff? Consignment sale volunteers and consignors earn pre-sale shopping passes to shop ahead of the crowds. Find a sale nearby and sign up for a volunteer work shift or read about how you can become a consignor.

Search for special sales

The popularity of children’s consignment sales has made way for special holiday toy sales in November and December. Seek out these specialty sales and plan to shop ‘til you drop.

Make like Santa and check your list

Make a list of the toys your kids would like and prioritize it by popularity. If Jacob wants a big boy bike and race cars, you’ll want to make a beeline to the bike first. Larger items usually sell out early.

New toys at played-with prices

Not sure your little one will like a previously played with toy? Don’t worry! There are a number of brand new toys to be found at consignment sales. Earn a pre-sale pass and shop early to find them.

Pick up packaged deals

Many consignors will package items like educational toys in sets that will save you even more money. You can scoop up LeapFrog learning systems paired with cartridges and a carrying case for a fraction of the cost of retail. Packages of books and DVDs also make great stocking stuffers.

Scoop up sports stuff

Collect a variety of sporting goods and gear to create a special bin for outdoor fun. You’ll find balls for every sport and the equipment to accompany them. Your kids will love picking from an assortment of items to play with when they head out to the yard. It will be the gift that keeps on giving!

Chrissy Freeman, the founder of Consignment Mommies, contributed this post.

###

Consignment Mommies is the nation’s leading children’s consignment resource. The website lists nearly 2,000 children’s consignment sales events with 23,000 ratings and reviews provided by consignment shoppers and sellers.