It’s time to get ready for school. While your kids might be dreading heading back to the classroom instead of enjoying the lazy days of summer, you might be dreading the inevitable shopping spree for school supplies. You can stay on budget with a trip to a discount store like the Dollar Tree or clip coupons ahead of time for your favorite store. Check out the back-to-school shopping guide below before you head out. It will help you make a back to school basic supply list so you don’t miss the necessities and useful extras. I have also made a printable back to school supply list for your convenience.
Back-to-School Basic Supplies List Shopping Necessities
Most schools have the teachers’ lists prepared and published by now. It’s smart to buy everything at once, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute when there’s a sudden need for graph paper or tape. In case your school doesn’t have a basic school supply list or you just want to start planning early, here are some of the items your child will need.
Notebooks
At the top of every list are the specifics of paper, notebooks and binders. Check for the right style before you buy, from spirals and marble bound books to loose-leaf paper and 3-ring binders. Pay attention to the sizes: College rule, wide rule and graph paper, for example.
Pencils
You’ll find No. 2 pencils on most supply lists. From tricky math problems to computerized tests, they’re still a must-have in school. Pencils do last a long time, so make sure you get the right kind. If you’re worried about them being mysteriously removed from your child’s pencil box, go for the fashion pencils in bright colors and designs. Erasers and pencil sharpeners are must-haves that come in different shapes and sizes. This is the perfect time to let your little shopper pick out a favorite theme or color. If you have more than one child, look for multicolored packs that can be safely divided without starting a sharing war.
Pens
An important element from any school supplies list for older kids, keep in mind that some teachers are fussy about blue versus black ink. Pay attention. Pens are a good item to stock up on in bulk. You can never have enough pens, because they seem to disappear quickly, leading you to believe your kids might actually be eating them instead of writing with them. Hint: Don’t ask where they go unless you want to start something.
Crayons, Markers and Colored Pencils
Age has a serious impact on what type of colorful drawing instruments are needed. They range from assorted colors in broad and skinny tips to highlighters, washable and dry erase markers. Crayons and colored pencils are critical for school projects and delight the budding artist. Check your inventory at home before you buy more. These can be shared and recycled from year to year; just be sure they’re not worn or broken.
Oh, and don’t forget to use kids name labels on all your supplies for easy identification.
Printable Back To School Supplies Checklist
This printable back to school basic school supplies list has all the essentials for elementary school kids plus some of the extra school supplies they may find useful in the older grades.
Back-to-School Extras You Probably Need
It happens every year. You buy everything that’s on the school supplies list from your child’s new teacher. By the end of the first week of school, you already have a new list of things you need that have nothing to do with the school’s requirements. Whether it’s for use at home or a trendy must-have that every kid in class has – except yours – here are 5 back-to-school essentials that probably aren’t on your child’s school supplies list.
Electronics Accessories
If your teen or tween has an electronic device, you’ll need chargers, adapters, bumpers, screen protectors and stylus pens. From music players and calculators to tablets and smartphones, your kids will need to plug in and stay charged. The docking station has new meaning now – and we’re not talking about starships here.
Dry Erase Boards
These aren’t just for friends writing messages on school lockers. Dry erase boards are a good way to help your family to stay on track at home. List after-school activities and practice times, upcoming school projects, chores and important messages. They’re good tools for teaching your kids how to stay organized and give themselves reminders.
Activity Books and Flash Cards
Activity books are a great answer to the two words that make you want to roll your eyes like a teenager: I’m bored. They’re available for almost any subject or just as a general fun learning tool. Flash cards are the traditional way to help your children grasp the basics of math and spelling at home. Hint: If you think your kids are spending too much time on the computer or in front of the TV, these are a good alternative to electronics.
Tape
Sounds so innocent, doesn’t it? Try going a few weeks into school without it. From school projects and crafty things to hanging up papers too heavy for magnets on the fridge, tape is a necessity. It’s one of the things you can buy in bulk and save on, because you know you’ll eventually use it. Hint: You might want to stash a few rolls in a secret hiding place so you can put your hand on it when you really need one.
Large Envelopes And/Or Folders
A great tool to stay organized, you’ll probably find that even in a culture where everything seems to be digital, your child still has an abundance of loose papers. These can stack up quickly. Large envelopes or folders keep them organized without taking up extra desk space at home. If your kids are looking for things to decorate with stickers, stamps, colored pencils and markers, envelopes are perfect. They’re also helpful for storing small pieces and parts – think game pieces, collectibles and the like. You can even snag a few for yourself for your coupon or recipe collection.
How To Get Discounts on Your Back To School Supplies
Back-to-school shopping can be fun and exciting but also draining on the checkbook! To help reduce your spending you will need to maximize your discounts. Three tips to help you save money on school supplies:
- Take advantage of state tax-free days (if your state has one).
- Collect store coupons.
- Compare store circulars.
Being organized with your shopping needs and approach will help reduce your shopping expenditures and time investment. I hope you find lots of discounts and your enjoy your Back To School Season!
Conclusion
Shopping for back-to-school supplies is always an adventure that signifies the end of summer vacation. Print your back to school basic supply list before you leave, and check off what you already own so you’re less likely to go over your budget. Wrap up your summer with a fun back-to-school shopping trip to the discount store, and make it a learning experience for young shoppers. I still cherish my memories of shopping for school supplies with my mom. I loved it!
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Uplifting Families says
I like to get poster boards at the Dollar tree. I got them either 3 or 4 for a dollar! I get crayons at Walmart- good deals on good brands.