The kids have been back in school for a couple of months now, which has allowed plenty of time for marketers to collect their data on the spending preferences and habits of our kids. The folks at TeenVoice tell us that this year kids were excited about shopping. Using a scale of one to five, the excitability factor averaged about three-point-six, with girls and boys being equal, and younger kids more excited than those who are older to go shopping. When it comes to who is influencing their purchases, social media and parents hold equal influence. You won’t be surprised that this year’s in-demand shoe brands are Nike, Adidas, and Jordans. Preferred backpack brands are Nike, Jansport, and North Face. And what about skinny jeans? Well, they are “out” this year. As Christian parents, we need to mindful of our need to counter the constant onslaught of marketing messages that convince our kids that they are what they wear. Instead, we need to teach them principles and practices of biblical stewardship.