Some retail giants like Wal-Mart are cutting prices on toys and putting out their Christmas selections earlier so shoppers have more time to budget.

This time of year, kids have costumes and candy on their minds. While Halloween hasn't even come to pass, some parents are already planning ahead for a larger financial burden: Christmas.

"If we go now, we can actually save hundreds of dollars,” said Chris Pavone.

Pavone and his wife, Amanda, plan to spend a little every week to make sure their two kids have presents under the tree by Dec. 25. They're getting a jumpstart because, like so many this year, they're usually living paycheck to paycheck.

"If I went Christmas shopping a week or two before, I probably would not be able to make a car payment,” said Pavone.

The Pavones are doing exactly what many retail giants suspected: spending earlier so they don't go under by putting it off and then blowing their budgets. That's exactly why Wal-Mart announced it's cutting prices on popular toys and will open its Christmas shops next week. Other stores are following a similar route.

When it comes to family funds, area financial advisers say people need to also have a plan, not simply about spending but also saving.

"Make sure that you have some cash available in the bank for emergencies. Make sure that you are not spending more than you can afford,” said Scott Lassley of Morris Financial Group.

For the Pavones, an early shopping plan reassures them that their kids will have toys to open on Christmas, and mom and dad won't break the bank making it a merry holiday.

"You are getting done early and you’re paying the bills and you know you are doing good,” said Pavone.

The holiday season is when many retailers make their profit for the year. It’s tougher this year with failing financial institutions and a bad housing market.