How to Create a School Supplies List

Students need a wide variety of supplies for school.

It's that time of year. Summer vacation is coming to an end, and the thoughts of school start entering the minds of children everywhere. Help your child get geared up for school and get off on the right foot with all the proper supplies. While stores abound with countless options, sometimes the simplest options are best. Big folders with pockets and gadgets may not fit into small desks. Backpacks with wheels are not allowed in all schools. Check your school's guidelines before embarking on your shopping trip.

Instructions

1. Check your mail for lists sent out by teachers or school districts. Most elementary schools will mail these lists at least a month before the start of school. For high school students, look for your child's class schedule, which is also mailed prior to the start of class.

2. Plan a day to go school supply shopping with your child. Include a favorite place for lunch, a stop at a playground or something else that will help keep your child excited. Use the age of your child as a guideline and plan a trip that will be fun, inspiring and engaging.

3. Organize your list by subject. Help your child pick a way to organize the topics; different colored folders, labels or even themes can help keep everything in its place. This is also a good time to bring up study habits and ask if there are any additional items that would help.

4. Check sale flyers and online ads. As the school season approaches, there are countless sales and offers on everything you could need. Stores that sell bulk or overstock supplies are also a good resource.

5. Don't forget items that may not be included on the teacher's list, such as book covers, index cards to make flash cards, colored markers and so forth. If you have a younger child, you may wish to pick up stickers, certificates or other rewards to acknowledge homework completion or other good behaviors.

6. When you go shopping, pick up extras. Create a supply box at home. This way, as your child runs out of supplies at school you can restock without having to run to the store. It also takes care of the last minute emergencies that tend to happen when a school project is due tomorrow and you suddenly realize you're out of glue or some other necessity.

Tips & Warnings

• Another way to help keep your child excited and involved is to plan a school supply party. Let your child invite friends, pick the store and help everyone work together to set up a plan for success over the school year.

References

• Great Schools: Back to School Supply List
• All Star Activites: School Supplies