As you create your child's back-to-school list and get them ready for the fall, making sure their bags hold the essentials will set them up for success in the long run.
With the right supplies, your child will be able to sit down and focus on their homework rather than trying to find what they need to complete tasks, which will help improve concentration, encourage self-esteem, and boost their desire to learn. They also have the added benefit of encouraging successful homework habits that will benefit them throughout their academic career.
Ensure that your child has everything they need for a happy school year with these must-buy items:
1. Folders
If your child needs a little extra help remembering to bring home school work or important documents, having designated, labeled folders will make all the difference. Available in office supply stores and online, you can purchase different colored, durable folders for each subject or task. Add a little fun by finding folders with their favorite book or tv characters on them.
2. Backpack
Toting books and other supplies is a Monday-through-Friday exercise, so a sturdy bag is an important investment. Look for a pack with a padded back to reduce pressure on their back, shoulders, and underarm regions. Opt for a bag with multiple compartments, too — they'll hold items securely while better distributing weight. Finally, choose a backpack with reflective material so your child is more visible to drivers after dark.
3. Calendar
Homework assignments, sports practices, music lessons, and social events — whew! Students always have plenty of dates to track, so the right calendar is essential. Carry-along planners are usually the most popular choices, as they fit neatly into a backpack for easy access at school and at home. For students who like to see the big picture, or for younger kids not ready for a planner, a wall calendar at home is a great visual reminder of what's happening on a weekly or monthly basis.
4. Downtime Treats
Your child faces the transition from having all day to play in the sun to a full day of school followed by homework, so as long as they're completing all their new assignments, treat them to something they can enjoy during downtime. Good picks include spending time together over a good read-aloud, purchasing a new book set of their favorite series, or doing some fun crafts.
5. Labels
Do not underestimate the importance of putting your child's full name on everything! Sew personalized name labels into clothing, use a Sharpie marker on the inside of a backpack, or smack a peel-and-stick label on a lunchbox. Whatever your choice, it will certainly lessen confusion if your child shares a name with a classmate or has a backpack similar to another child's.
6. Lucky Charm
Sometimes a reminder of home can be incredibly helpful in transitioning a first-timer to the classroom environment. When you go school shopping together, pick out a little mascot that fits in a backpack, locker, or desk. That way, your child can look at it and smile any time they need a boost throughout the day.
7. Study Materials
One way to make sure your child gets back into the swing of things is practice, practice, practice. If there was a particular subject they struggled with last year, pick out a book with five-minute activities that help build skills. Invest in fun workbooks that both sharpen their skills and engage their imagination with stories, puzzles, and more.
8. Reference Books
Stock up on new editions of the best reference books. Whether they're looking for info about STEM topics or the best in biographies, give them the books they need to reignite their curiosity and love of learning.
Shop more back-to-school essentials below! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.