What Your Kids Need for Back to School
By Katy S
Back-to-school time is here! Summer is coming to an end, and your children are probably getting ready to head to school. Do you have all the essential gear they need for a successful school year? We’ve compiled a list of must-have items for a few age ranges.
Elementary School
The number one item an elementary-school child needs is a comfortable backpack. You don’t want your little guy or girl to carry a bunch of books unsupported. You should also purchase the following basic items.
- Blunt-ended scissors
- Box of crayons
- Composition notebooks
- Drawing or construction paper
- Glue sticks
- Large eraser
- No. 2 pencils
- Ruler
- Stapler
- Storage box to hold pencils, crayons, etc.
- Tape
Middle and High School
In addition to some of the items above, such as a ruler, tape, and stapler, older students will need a few more products.
- Ballpoint pens
- Calculator
- College-ruled loose-leaf notebook paper
- Combination locks, if your child’s school doesn’t have built-in locks on the lockers
- Highlighters
- Folders
- Index cards
- Ink cartridges
- Paper clips
- Printer paper
- Spiral-bound notebooks
- Three-ring binders
College
This period of time is when the money can really start to add up on back-to-school items. If your teenager will be living at college, she or he will need a lot of household products in addition to the regular school items. Many colleges and universities provide freshman students with a list of necessary products ahead of term.
Essentials
- Alarm clock
- Deodorant
- Dryer sheets
- Extension cord
- First aid kit, including bandaids, Neosporin, etc.
- Hairbrush or comb
- Hand sanitizer
- Hangars
- Laundry bag or basket
- Lotion
- Medications, including prescription and over the counter (OTC)
- Nail clippers
- Q-tips/cotton balls
- Razors
- Shaving cream
- Sheets, pillow, and blanket/comforter
- Shower caddy
- Soap, face wash, shampoo, and conditioner
- Tissues
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash
- Towels and wash cloths
- USB cable
Extras
- Back study pillow
- Can opener
- Cleaning wipes
- Desk lamp
- Flash drive
- Hair accessories, such as ponytail holders, bobby pins, etc.
- Hair products, such as hair spray, gel, etc.
- Hair tools, such as hairdryer, curling iron, etc.
- Liquid dish detergent
- Microwave
- Paper towels
- Plates, bowels, cups, and utensils
- Robe (for going to/from shower)
- Small refrigerator
- Stain remover
- Vacuum
Are you and your child prepared for the new school year? Let us know below or on Facebook and Twitter.