In Minnesota, it’s not even remotely close to the end of winter. But all of the stores are anxious to get their spring and summer inventory out on the racks. Now is the time to start thinking ahead for next winter.

It’s a great time to find deals on winter jackets, gloves, hats, scarves and boots. I found boots for my son 1/2 off at Target. And yesterday, my mom found three winter jackets for my kids at Herbergers. She got three really warm, nice, namebrand jackets that would normally have cost $180 all together for $32. Last February, I found a Minnesota Twins winter jacket for $9 (it was normally $40) for my oldest to wear this winter. I noticed that Walmart and Target are starting to put their winter accessories on sale now, too. You can also find good deals online, too. And don’t forget to check out thrift stores and consignment stores. They are having sales now on winter outerwear.

One of the best strategies I’ve used for making the most out of my kids’ winter clothing purchases is to stick to a general color scheme. All of my boys’ winter outerwear has some element of navy in it. This makes it easy to buy ahead for next year and to utilize things my oldest outgrew with the little ones. Oftentimes, kids don’t outgrow their hats or mittens from one year to the next. So, if you purchase a jacket for next year following your color scheme, you won’t have to worry about buying all new hats and mittens. It also makes it easy when someone loses a hat or a mitten. You know that you have a whole collection of hats and mittens that will match their coats. Having a common color also helps with snowpants. All of my boys are varying sizes. I have a collection of snowpants (in several sizes), all in navy. I know that at least one of those pairs will fit each boy.

It’s also a good time to purchase sweaters, pants, pajamas, and long sleeve shirts for next winter. I’ve seen cute little sweater and pants sets for boys and frilly dresses for girls for 75 percent off their original price. (Think Christmas photos, everyone!)

Sometimes it is hard to guess what size your child will be wearing next winter. With all three of my boys, I have noticed that they are one or two sizes ahead of their age. For example, my almost-three-year-old, will probably be in a 5T next winter. My twins, who are in 9-12 month sizes now, will probably be in 2T next winter. Leave the tags on the items. Some stores may let you exchange them next winter. You could also sell them to another mom or at a consignment shop if the clothes don’t fit next winter and at least break even on the deal. So far, I have been lucky and have not had anything I bought in advance be too small.

The sale prices are too good not to take the risk.