Back to school season is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially for parents of elementary school kids. As a teacher and parent, I’ve experienced the rush to gather supplies, coordinate schedules, and ensure everything is ready for the big day. Over the years, I’ve developed a system to make this process easier, and I’m excited to share my insights with you.
This Ultimate Elementary School Back to School Checklist covers all the must-haves for young learners, ensuring they’re prepared for success. Along the way, I’ll share personal stories, practical tips, and important takeaways to make your back-to-school preparations a breeze.
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About Us
I have been a teacher for over 20 years. My efforts to support student learning by forging strong student, parent, teacher relationships and the incorporation of up to date technology in the classroom, along with a lot of hard work led to the honor of being named as an LAUSD Teacher of the Year in 2023.
The purpose of EdThings.com is to help educate children.
1. A Reliable Backpack
The foundation of every student’s back to school toolkit is a sturdy backpack. It’s not just a bag; it’s their mobile command center, carrying books, supplies, and treasures from home. When selecting one, choose a size appropriate for your child’s age and workload, and ensure it has multiple compartments for organization.
I once had a student bring a tiny backpack that couldn’t even fit a folder. It became a running joke in class, but it also underscored the importance of choosing the right size. For younger kids, opt for lightweight designs, while older elementary students may need something larger for heavier books.
2. Writing Essentials
No Elementary School Supplies Checklist is complete without writing tools. Stock up on No. 2 pencils, erasers, and wide-ruled notebooks. These are the staples of every classroom, supporting everything from math drills to creative writing.
I’ll never forget one student who arrived on the first day with a pencil so tiny it was almost impossible to use. It’s a good reminder to check your child’s supplies before they leave for school!
3. Coloring Supplies and Creativity
Art is a critical part of elementary education, sparking creativity and self-expression. Your child will need crayons, colored pencils, and washable markers for projects and activities. These tools allow kids to bring their ideas to life while developing fine motor skills.
Encourage your child to keep their art supplies organized. A pencil pouch or box works wonders for keeping everything in one place and avoiding mid-class scavenger hunts.
Important Takeaways
- Preparation Builds Confidence: Having the right supplies sets the tone for a successful school year.
- Creativity Matters: Art supplies like crayons and markers encourage self-expression and skill-building.
- Stay Organized: Folders, pencil cases, and planners help teach responsibility and time management.
- Label Everything: Avoid lost items by marking your child’s belongings.
- Hygiene is Key: Include tissues and sanitizer for cleanliness and independence.
4. Folders, Planners, and Organization Tools
Teaching organization is one of the most valuable skills you can give your child. Add folders, binders, and a planner to your checklist. Pocket folders are especially useful for keeping homework and handouts neat, while planners help track assignments and extracurricular activities.
One year, a student started using a planner for the first time, and their newfound organization was transformative. By the end of the year, they were reminding classmates about due dates!
5. Scissors, Glue, and the Little Extras
Hands-on activities are a big part of elementary learning, making scissors and glue sticks essential. Child-safe scissors are perfect for cutting shapes during art projects, while glue sticks are less messy than traditional glue.
Another often-overlooked item on the School Back to School Checklist is a ruler. It’s not just for math; it’s also great for art and science projects.
6. Hygiene Supplies for a Healthy Year
In today’s world, hygiene has become a critical part of the back to school routine. A small pack of tissues and a travel-sized hand sanitizer can go a long way in keeping your child healthy. These items also encourage kids to take responsibility for their personal cleanliness. As a teacher, I’ve handed out more tissues than I can count, so trust me when I say these items are lifesavers.7. Bonus Items for Specific Needs
Depending on your child’s grade and school, there may be additional items to consider. For instance, some schools require calculators for older elementary students, while others ask for specific art supplies like watercolors or construction paper. Always check the National PTA’s Back-to-School Checklist for additional guidance tailored to your child’s grade level.
And if you’re looking for tips on staying organized throughout the year, check out my article on Creating Your Own Math Worksheets for a simple way to support your child’s math skills at home.
Want to see our Free Math Worksheet Creators?
Why This Checklist Matters
Back to school shopping is about more than just supplies. It’s about preparing your child for success, building their confidence, and showing them that their education matters. When kids walk into class with everything they need, they feel ready to take on the challenges of a new year.
I’ve seen how the right tools can transform a student’s experience. One year, a shy student started using a colorful folder system, and it gave them the confidence to participate more in class. These small investments have big payoffs.
A Few Final Tips
- Take your child shopping with you to let them pick out items they love. This builds excitement for the new year.
- Stick to this Elementary School Back to School Checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
- Keep extra supplies at home for mid-year restocks.
Wrapping Up the Ultimate Checklist
The first day of school is a fresh start, full of possibilities. With the right supplies, your child can hit the ground running and embrace all the opportunities the new year brings. This Ultimate Elementary School Back to School Checklist is designed to help you stay organized, prepared, and confident as you tackle the season.
As a teacher and parent, I can tell you that these small preparations make a world of difference. Here’s to a successful and exciting school year!
Recap: Everything You Need for a Successful Back-to-School Season
To wrap it up, here’s a quick recap of the 15 must-have items from the Ultimate Elementary School Back to School Checklist: a sturdy backpack, wide-ruled journals, loose-leaf paper, No. 2 pencils and erasers, blue or black pens, bright crayons, colored pencils, washable markers, highlighters, glue sticks, child-safe scissors, a ruler, a pencil case or pouch, pocket folders, and a simple calculator. Don’t forget to add the bonus essentials: tissues, hand sanitizer, and an agenda or planner to keep your child organized.
With these supplies in hand, your elementary school student will be fully prepared to start the school year with confidence, creativity, and the tools they need to succeed!
