Parents are getting ready to tackle their back-to-school shopping

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Stores are stocking up for one of their busiest times of the year. As the start of school approaches, families are hitting the store aisles. But not as many as you think.

An Action News poll conducted by Survey USA shows only 43-percent of parents in San Joaquin Valley have started their back to school shopping. Most of parents plan to spend more on back to school clothes-- only four percent are expecting to spend less than $50. On supplies, the majority think they'll spend $50 to $100.

"I definitely see it slowly starting to pick up. I think people are trying to enjoy their summer for as long as they can," said Natalie Khan, Sierra Vista Mall Marketing Director.

Jackie Juarez is preparing to start the semester at Clovis Community College. Her incentive for starting the shopping early, she said, is a good selection.

"Right now is when you have all the good selections. Towards the end is when it gets messy."

"You're going to find the best deals-- I absolutely believe you'll find the best selection," said Khan.

Getting a jump start on your back to school shopping doesn't just mean you get the best selection of clothes-- you also get your choice of school supplies too.

"I really like buying my binder cuz then I have-- I can customize it and stuff like with duct tape and stuff," said Grace Weber, 8th grade.

According to the National Retail Federation back-to-school and back-to-college spending is expected to total $75.8-billion this year. In the Central Valley, the Sierra Vista Mall is kicking off the festivities.

"It's this whole memory. They're starting a new chapter in their life so we wanted to bring that to our community and start it off with a great memory," said Khan.

This Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the back to school bash at the malls center court will feature free school supplies and prizes like back to school makeovers.