Can you believe that it’s already time to go back to school? With this Back to School Must Have Supplies List, the kids and you will be ready for that first day to start without a hitch!
This guide has everything you need to be prepared for the first day of school. From supplies to great lunch ideas and snacks, it is the perfect one-stop shop for prepping, planning, and getting excited about returning to a school routine!
The fun thing about this time of year is a buzz of excitement! The kids might not feel that way, but soon, they’ll jump for joy, seeing and reconnecting with their friends and favorite teachers.
Now is the perfect time to grab must-have items for school that can help them feel comfortable, prepared, and ready for the year!
How can I start preparing for the first day of school?
Start by creating a checklist of essential items such as school supplies, uniforms, and any required documentation. Involve your children by letting them choose their supplies and outfits, which can help them feel more excited and less anxious.
Establish a consistent bedtime routine at least a week before school starts to ensure they get adequate rest. Familiarize yourself and your kids with the school layout and daily schedule to reduce first-day jitters.
Finally, pack a nutritious lunch and include a note of encouragement to make their day special. These steps will set the stage for a successful and stress-free start to the school year.
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How do I help my child overcome the first day of school jitters?
Helping your child overcome the first day of school jitters begins with open and reassuring communication. Start by discussing their fears and anxieties, validating their feelings while offering comforting words.
Share positive stories about your school experiences and emphasize the exciting aspects of meeting new friends and learning new things. Role-playing common school scenarios can also boost their confidence and preparedness.
Visiting the school beforehand to familiarize them with the environment and introduce them to their teacher can make the transition smoother. Establish a consistent morning routine to provide stability and ease on that important day.
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What is a fun surprise breakfast idea for the kids on the first day of school?
Start the first day of school excitedly by surprising the kids with a fun and colorful pancake breakfast! Whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes and set out an array of vibrant toppings, such as fresh berries, banana slices, and various sprinkles.
Add a few fun-shaped cookie cutters to the mix so the kids can create their pancake shapes: stars, hearts, or even their favorite animals.
Finish the meal with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream. This delightful surprise makes breakfast special and sets a positive tone for the school year ahead!
How do I pack school lunches for kids?
Start by including a balanced mix of essential nutrients—whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. A turkey and cheese sandwich on whole grain bread, a side of carrot sticks, an apple, and a small yogurt can make for a nutritious and appealing meal.
Remember to consider your child’s preferences and any dietary restrictions. Incorporate variety to keep things interesting, perhaps by occasionally swapping the sandwich for a wrap or salad. Including a small treat like a homemade cookie can also add a touch of excitement.
Reusable containers should be used to keep the food fresh and eco-friendly. By planning thoughtfully, you can ensure your kids enjoy a healthy, delicious lunch every day.
Back to School Must Have Supplies List
Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, having the right supplies can make a difference in creating an organized and efficient learning environment. Get ready to tackle the academic year with confidence and ease!
Back to School Must Have Supplies List
These items are perfect for going back to school! You can easily grab the latest and greatest items for school to be prepped and ready!
"DIY MARKY's Customizable Stamp for Kids has made organizing my child's belongings both fun and efficient!" - Kelli Miller
The DIY MARKY Customizable Stamp for Kids is an exceptional tool for parents seeking a hassle-free way to label children's clothes and school supplies. With its intuitive setup, this stamp allows for quick personalization, ensuring each item is uniquely marked with clarity and precision.
What sets this stamp apart is its remarkable durability. Each imprint is designed to withstand countless washes and the rigors of daily use, making it ideal for frequently used items like lunchboxes and backpacks. The ease of use is another highlight, allowing even the busiest parents to effortlessly manage labeling tasks.
Safety is a top priority with the DIY MARKY stamp. The ink is certified safe for children's skin, providing peace of mind for parents. Additionally, its eco-friendly construction aligns with sustainable practices, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious families.
Overall, the DIY MARKY Customizable Stamp blends convenience, creativity, and sustainability, making it a must-have for any family looking to streamline their school year preparations.
Disclaimer: I was sent a review set of DIY MARKY's Customizable Stamp for Kids, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
"Matter Compostable Plastic Sandwich Bags have revolutionized how I manage kitchen waste!" - Kelli Miller
Matter Compostable Plastic Sandwich Bags are a game-changer for those looking to make environmentally conscious choices without sacrificing convenience. These bags stand out with their eco-friendly design, made from sustainable plant-based materials that break down naturally, reducing the dependency on traditional plastic.
Durability is a key feature of these bags. Despite being compostable, they are robust enough to hold a variety of foods securely, ensuring no spills or leaks. The resealable closure adds an extra layer of convenience, making them perfect for everyday use, whether you're packing a lunch or storing leftovers.
What truly sets these bags apart is their positive environmental impact. By choosing Matter Compostable Bags, you're actively contributing to reducing plastic waste, a small yet significant step towards a healthier planet. They are an ideal solution for families and individuals who want to embrace a greener lifestyle without compromising on quality or functionality.
Incorporating these bags into your daily routine is an easy way to make a positive environmental difference, proving that practical solutions can also be sustainable.
Disclaimer: I was sent a review set of Matter Compostable Plastic Sandwich Bags, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
"A stylish lifesaver for those of us who toss everything into our bags!" - Kelli Miller
The Ayla Mini is a chic and practical solution for anyone who, like me, tends to throw literally everything into their purse. The standout feature of this bag is its removable and washable inner liner, which is truly a game changer.
This thoughtful design means I no longer have to worry about spills or messes ruining my bag. Whether it's a leaky pen, a snack mishap, or just the general chaos of daily life, the liner can be easily removed and cleaned, keeping the bag fresh and looking new.
The Ayla Mini is not just functional but also stylish, with a sleek design that complements any outfit. It's the perfect size for carrying essentials without being bulky, making it ideal for both everyday use and special occasions.
Overall, the Ayla Mini combines fashion and functionality in a way that makes it an essential accessory for anyone who values both style and practicality. It's a must-have for those who want a bag that can keep up with their busy lifestyle!
Disclaimer: I was sent a review of Ayla Mini, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Paper Products
Make writing and taking notes fun and engaging with these must-have paper products!
"Combining Moleskine quality with Harry Potter magic, this notebook is a dream come true, especially with its glow-in-the-dark feature!" - Kelli Miller
As a huge fan of both Moleskine notebooks and the Harry Potter series, the Moleskine Large Limited Edition Harry Potter Notebook - The Expecto Patronum is like a dream come true. The high-quality paper and iconic Moleskine design are already enough to win me over, but adding the Harry Potter theme takes it to another level.
One of the most enchanting features of this notebook is the glow-in-the-dark design. When the lights go out, the Expecto Patronum charm appears, casting a magical glow that adds a touch of whimsy and excitement to my note-taking and journaling sessions. It truly feels like a piece of the wizarding world has been brought into my everyday life.
The cover design is beautifully rendered, capturing the essence of the Harry Potter universe while maintaining the classic elegance that Moleskine is known for.
Inside, the notebook offers the same smooth, high-quality paper that makes writing such a pleasure. Whether I'm jotting down ideas, sketching, or planning my day, this notebook meets all my needs with style.
The elastic closure and expandable inner pocket are practical additions that ensure my notes and small keepsakes stay secure. The ribbon bookmark is also a handy feature, helping me keep track of where I left off.
Overall, the Moleskine Large Limited Edition Harry Potter Notebook - The Expecto Patronum is a must-have for any fan of the series. Its combination of Moleskine's renowned quality and Harry Potter-themed magic—complete with a glow-in-the-dark feature—makes it a standout addition to my collection.
Now, I just need the Lumos version to complete the magical set!
If you're a fan looking for a special notebook that brings a bit of the wizarding world into your daily life, this is definitely the one to get!
Disclaimer: I was sent a review of Moleskine Large Limited Edition Harry Potter Notebook, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Writing Supplies
Use these supplies for writing, creative artwork, and more!
"Unleash your creativity with Ohuhu Alcohol Markers—professional quality at an unbeatable price!" -Kelli Miller
As someone who has dabbled in various brands of alcohol markers, including some of the more expensive ones, I can confidently say that the Ohuhu Alcohol Markers Double Tipped Set has exceeded my expectations. These markers are a lifesaver, especially now that it’s back-to-school season.
One of the things I love most about these markers is their dual-tip design. The broad tip is perfect for covering large areas, which I often need for background work. On the other hand, the fine tip allows me to add intricate details effortlessly. This versatility is hard to find, even in pricier brands.
The 60 vibrant landscape colors in this set are simply stunning. They bring my nature scenes to life with such depth and richness. The colorless blender is another excellent addition; it makes blending colors smooth and easy without any smudging, thanks to the fast-drying, alcohol-based ink.
What really sets these markers apart is their refillable feature. Unlike other brands where I constantly worry about running out of ink, these markers can be refilled, saving me money and reducing waste. The ergonomic grip is also a game-changer, making long drawing sessions comfortable and enjoyable.
The carry case is an added bonus. It keeps my markers organized and is perfect for taking them on the go. The drawable surface of the case adds a personal touch, letting me customize it to my liking.
Overall, the Ohuhu Alcohol Markers have become my go-to for all my art projects. They offer the same, if not better, quality as the more expensive markers but at a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking for high-quality, versatile, and budget-friendly markers for the new school year, I highly recommend giving these a try… now I need the Illustration Tones!
Disclaimer: I was sent a review set of Ohuhu Alcohol Markers, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
"Ohuhu Acrylic Paint Pens deliver vibrant, precise color for all your creative projects!" - Kelli Miller
I've had the pleasure of trying out the Ohuhu Acrylic Paint Pens, and I am thrilled to share my experience with these fantastic art tools. As someone who's experimented with various paint pens over the years, these stand out for several reasons.
First off, the color selection is incredible. With 36 vibrant colors to choose from, these pens have brought a new level of excitement to my art projects. Whether I'm working on canvases, rocks, wood, or even glass, the colors remain bold and true to their shades, which is a significant plus.
The precision of these pens is another highlight. The fine tips allow for detailed work, while the broad tips make it easy to cover larger areas quickly. This versatility is perfect for any project, be it intricate designs or expansive murals. The ink flows smoothly, and I haven't encountered any clogging issues, which has been a problem with other brands I've tried.
One feature that I particularly appreciate is the quick-drying, water-based ink. It makes layering colors much easier without worrying about smudges. Plus, once dry, the paint is permanent and water-resistant, ensuring that my artwork stands the test of time.
The ergonomic design of the pens provides a comfortable grip, making long drawing sessions enjoyable. The caps are also clearly labeled, so it's easy to find the color I need without any hassle.
Overall, the Ohuhu Acrylic Paint Pens have become an essential part of my art supplies. They offer professional quality at a great price, making them suitable for artists of all levels. If you're looking for reliable, vibrant, and versatile paint pens, I highly recommend giving these a try.
Disclaimer: I was sent a review set of Ohuhu Acrylic Paint Pens, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
"A stunning pen that combines beauty and function, but setting it up was a bit of a challenge!" - Kelli Miller
The Tom's Studio Lumos Ivy Duo Tip Refillable Fineliner & Brush Pen is truly a sight to behold. Its elegant design and beautiful finish immediately caught my eye, and the larger barrel provides a comfortable grip, making long writing or drawing sessions much more enjoyable.
One of the standout features of this pen is its versatility. With both a fineliner and a brush tip, it offers the flexibility needed for various projects, from intricate line work to expressive brush strokes. The fact that it's refillable is another huge plus, as it ensures that this pen can be a long-lasting part of my collection.
However, I did encounter some difficulties when it came to setting it up. The instructions were not included inside the bag but rather printed on the inside of the wrapper, which made them easy to miss initially.
Even after finding the instructions, they didn't cover how to get the ink into the pen. I had to search for a YouTube video to figure out the process, adding unnecessary time and frustration to what should have been a straightforward setup.
Despite these initial hurdles, once I got everything working, the pen performed beautifully. The ink flow is smooth, and the quality of the lines is impressive. I particularly appreciate the comfort of the larger barrel, which fits perfectly in my hand and reduces fatigue.
Overall, the Tom's Studio Lumos Ivy Duo Tip Refillable Fineliner & Brush Pen is a fantastic tool for anyone who values both aesthetics and functionality in their writing instruments. While the setup process could be more user-friendly, the pen's performance and design make it worth the effort.
If you don't mind a little extra legwork to get started, this pen will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to your artistic toolkit.
Disclaimer: I was sent a review of Tom's Studio Lumos Ivy Duo Tip Refillable Fineliner & Brush Pen, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Organization
Staying on top of all the homework, activities, and due dates doesn't have to be stressful. Use these items to help with organization for the school year!
"A perfect pocket-sized companion for on-the-go organization!" - Kelli Miller
As a huge Filofax fan, I was thrilled to add the Filofax Saffiano Pocket Organiser in Raspberry to my collection. While I use a Rose Gold A5 Saffiano every single day, I initially worried that this smaller Pocket size would be too limited for practical use. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find it exceeded my expectations.
The vibrant raspberry color is simply stunning and adds a cheerful pop to my daily routine. The quality and craftsmanship are exactly what I've come to expect from Filofax, with a sleek design and durable materials that can withstand frequent use.
Despite its compact size, this Pocket Organizer is incredibly functional. It's perfect for slipping into my purse, allowing me to easily jot down notes, check my calendar, and keep track of important details while on the go. The layout is well-thought-out, with enough space for essentials without being bulky.
The inclusion of multiple pockets and card slots ensures that I can carry everything I need, from business cards to small notes. The rings hold the paper securely, and the pages turn smoothly without snagging.
Overall, the Filofax Saffiano Pocket Organiser in Raspberry is a fantastic addition to my organizational tools. It beautifully complements my Rose Gold A5 Saffiano, providing a portable and stylish solution for staying organized wherever I am.
If you're looking for a high-quality, compact organizer that fits perfectly into your daily life, this one is definitely worth considering!
Disclaimer: I was sent a review of Filofax Saffiano Pocket Organiser, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Which of these school supply items are you looking forward to getting first?
Bryan
Wednesday 21st of December 2016
I agree to your list Kelli, I will add sharpie. My kiddos love this stuff. Cheers
Laura
Friday 29th of July 2016
School supply time can be expensive. These are great lists. Thank you for sharing this with us at Thoughts of Home.
Marie
Monday 25th of July 2016
Our school asks for all kinds of crazy things from specific headphones to plastic folders... I do love stocking up at back to school time on the basics like crayons and glue sticks, though. Not just for the kiddos either. Thanks for sharing your list (and printable) with us at Merry Monday this week!
Monica
Thursday 11th of September 2014
Fabulous list! Pinned! Monica
Cynthia
Friday 18th of July 2014
The cost of school supplies can really add up. It makes so much of a difference to be able to hit those sales. Thanks for the recommendations. Thank you for linking at the In and Out of the Kitchen Link Party. Hope to see you again next week.