15 Must-Have Back-to-School Supplies for a Successful Year Ahead
Get that backpack, lunch box, and locker ready!
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When it's time to go back to school, it can be just as stressful on the parents as it is the kids! That's because it's the adult's job to organize all the schedules and buy anything and everything the kiddos might need to head back into their classrooms. And while plenty of schools provide a list of required materials, there are always so many other back-to-school supplies you have to find on your own.
Beyond the pens and paper, you also need to consider everyday items like backpacks and lunch boxes plus not-so-obvious purchases like a protective sleeve for their tablet or laptop and headphones. What's a parent to do? Well, start here first! There are 15 items to consider for back-to-school essentials, plus a few finds that will make it more enjoyable for the kids who are dreading the inevitable. (Think: cute accessories for their lockers!)
You'll find items from most major retailers like Walmart (which has some of the best prices for school supplies), Amazon, and Staples. Just order them online and have them shipped right to you so you can spend more time enjoying those last few days of summer (or figuring out if they've outgrown their shoes). Then you can feel good that you've set them and you up for a successful year ahead without even leaving home!
Make sure you feed 'em, too:
When it comes to backpacks, there is an endless selection. But you can't go wrong with a JanSport if you're looking for a no frills workhorse that will carry everything. It's a great value for something so durable.
A go-to insulated lunch bag will keep food fresh and cool no matter when that bell rings to eat. L.L. Bean's version is made from the same sturdy construction that makes their backpacks so popular. It's easy to clean, too!
This is as much for you as it is for them! Did you know you can schedule your entire family's activities in one convenient spot? Artful Agenda is an online subscription you can use on your phone or computer.
At this point in life, every single person needs a water bottle to help stay hydrated. Most backpacks and lunch bags are built for them now! YETI's version for kids is leakproof with a built-in straw. It's also dishwasher safe.
If they're required to have a tablet or laptop with them, they're bound to bang it up. A sleeve gives it enough protection throughout the day to keep it lasting all year long. Plus, then they can easily identify which one is theirs!
Label everything. Repeat: Label. Everything. There are so many things that the kids can get mixed up with their classmates, that you'll constantly be using this P-touch over and over again.
Kids of all ages will use pencils, pens, marker, etc. They should have a case to carry them all so they don't get lost in the depths of their bag or leak on their books. This one is silicone so it's easy to clean and customize with charms.
A locker isn't their locker until they can customize it! This kit comes with a locker shelf, a mirror, a magnetic cup for pens, a dry erase board with a marker, and six magnets to hang up their favorite photos.
Hand sanitizer is a must to keep germs at bay. Touchland has tons of fun scents that contain aloe vera and essential oils, leaving hands sanitized, hydrated, and smelling good. They even have fun carrying cases if your kids like to accessorize.
Many stores, organizations, and even schools have drives to collect school supplies for kids in need. Pay it forward with an affordable all-in-one set to help kids succeed. All the basics are included!
JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Kids Wireless Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones can help them concentrate on their work. This pair is designed for kids! Not only does it fit smaller heads, but it has built-in volume regulators to ensure safe listening levels.
It's just a fact that kids lose things. Make it easier to find them with a bluetooth tracker. Put it in their bag and you can locate it from an app on your phone.
If they're allowed to have their phone in school, they probably use it a lot and then the battery dies when they need you most. A portable charger will keep them powered up and in safe communication.
Especially if you've got a kid in sports, some of the stinkiest things they carry around are their sneakers. These bananas seem funny to tote along with them, but they actually deodorize shoes like a champ.
It seems like all kids these days are in to skincare routines. Consider this as an intro for them! Made with gentle and age-appropriate ingredients, they can experiment with a lip balm, lip and cheek stick, and a moisturizing body balm.
AnnMarie Mattila is the Senior Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering a wide range of topics from food and cooking to home, beauty, style, and more.
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