School Supplies

Back to School Essentials

August 08, 20243 min read

Back to School Must-Haves for a Successful School Year

As summer winds down, it's time to prepare for the upcoming school year. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into their senior year of high school, having the right supplies can set the stage for success. Here’s a comprehensive list of back-to-school must-haves to ensure your student is ready for anything.

1. Organizational Tools

  • Planner or Agenda: Keeping track of assignments, tests, and activities is crucial. A planner helps students manage their time effectively.

  • Folders and Binders: These help keep subjects organized and papers in order. Consider using different colors for each subject.

  • Notebooks: Stock up on notebooks for taking notes in class. Choose from spiral-bound, composition, or loose-leaf styles depending on preference.

2. Writing Supplies

  • Pencils and Pens: Stock up on #2 pencils, colored pens for notes, and a set of highlighters for emphasizing important information.

  • Erasers: Large pink erasers and cap erasers for pencils are essential for correcting mistakes.

  • Markers and Colored Pencils: Useful for projects, art assignments, and making colorful notes.

3. Technology Essentials

  • Laptop or Tablet: Many schools now require or recommend having a personal device for research, assignments, and virtual learning.

  • Headphones or Earbuds: Necessary for virtual learning environments and for listening to educational videos without disturbing others.

  • Portable Charger: Ensures devices stay charged throughout the school day, especially important for high school and college students.

4. Backpack and Lunch Gear

  • Durable Backpack: A good quality backpack with plenty of compartments to keep everything organized.

  • Lunch Box: Choose an insulated lunch box to keep food fresh and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

  • Ice Packs: Keep lunches cool and safe to eat.

5. Classroom Supplies

  • Index Cards: Great for making flashcards and studying on the go.

  • Glue Sticks and Scissors: Basic supplies for art projects and classroom activities.

  • Ruler and Protractor: Essential for math and geometry classes.

6. Health and Safety

  • Hand Sanitizer: Keep germs at bay with a personal bottle of hand sanitizer.

  • Face Masks: Depending on school requirements, having a supply of masks can be crucial.

  • Tissues: Handy for sniffles and minor spills.

7. Personal Care Items

  • Lip Balm and Lotion: Keeping these items in a backpack can help students stay comfortable throughout the day.

  • Hair Ties and Clips: Essential for keeping hair out of the face during activities and studies.

8. Physical Education Gear

  • Gym Clothes: Comfortable athletic wear and appropriate footwear for PE classes.

  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated during physical activities is crucial.

9. Art and Creative Supplies

  • Sketchbook: For art classes or creative doodling during free time.

  • Art Supplies: Depending on your child’s grade level, this might include paints, brushes, or specialty papers.

10. Emergency Kit

  • Band-Aids: For minor cuts and scrapes.

  • Extra Set of Clothes: Especially for younger students, having a spare set of clothes can be a lifesaver in case of spills or accidents.

Bonus: Homeschooling Essentials

For those homeschooling, having a designated study space with all the necessary supplies, including educational resources like books and online subscriptions, is key. A whiteboard or corkboard can help keep track of schedules and assignments.


Preparation is key to a successful school year. By ensuring your student has these must-have items, you set them up for a productive and enjoyable academic experience. Happy back-to-school season from KrisandLarry.com!


If you need more tips or resources for the upcoming school year, visit our website at www.krisandlarry.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive content!

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We are a large, Christian, homeschooling homesteading family from Chino Valley, Arizona. (2 parents - Kris and Larry, 8 kids, some not so little any more and 3 spouses of the kids)

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