How to Build a Student Survival Kit

A student survival kit includes a collection of items students need to make school easier. Survival kits are great for students starting a new school year whether they are in sixth grade or seniors in college. Most primary and elementary schools require students to bring school supplies so no survival kit is needed. Building a survival kit helps students succeed with essential tools that prepare them to get ready for new classes, keep up with assignments and help make studying easier.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase a bag or notebook to store the survival kit's items. Some schools have banned students from carrying backpacks and large bags. Schools that have banned bags supply the students with lockers to hold books and supplies.

2. Look for a well-organized notebook or binder with dividers to hold loose-leaf paper. Buy paper and spiral notebooks or composition books to put in the notebook or binder.

3. Buy plenty of writing utensils. Most classes require the students to use blue or black ink or pencils for class assignments. Two multi-packs of pens or pencils are plenty to start with. Include a small pencil sharper and pencil bag in the student's survival kit. Add markers if the student is taking art or has a class that requires the student to create special projects.

4. Collect spare change. Place the change in a zipper pocket on the bag or inside the notebook. A small amount of change is great for students to have in case of emergencies.

5. Include a day planner in the kit. These help students keep up with test dates, school events and assignment due dates. Some planners are like notebooks while others are electronic.

6. Buy folders to organize loose paper, notices and tests. Several folders should be included in the school survival kit. The student should have one folder for each subject they are studying.

7. Purchase book covers for the kit. They keep a textbook in good condition and allow college students to resell the book at the end of the school year.

8. Provide the student with items to help keep them going strong throughout the year. If the student has a locker, shelving is available at most retail stores that carry school supplies. A small dictionary, thesaurus, tissues and breath mints are also great to add to the student's kit.

Resources

• Find information for families with school-age students