Are you wondering down the aisles wondering what to buy because you weren't given a back to school shopping list? Here's a comprehensive guide at some of the most requested items from teachers. Below are also cost effective tips.
Supplies
- Pencils
- Ballpoint pens
- Markers
- Crayons
- Colored pencils
- Highlighters
- Erasers
- Notebooks
- Index cards
- Loose Binder paper
- Graph paper - especially usually in middle school and high school
- Folders
- Binders - Variety of sizes, but .5-2 inches depending on grade and subjects
- Clear tape
- Glue sticks
Gear
- Water bottle
- Lunchbox
- Backpack
- Pencil case/pouch
- Gym bag
- Elastic book covers (for a low cost option, repurpose clean paper grocery bags)
Tools & Tech
- Computer and/or tablet
- Printer (and ink cartridges. Plenty of sites offer low cost ink online now)
- Calculator
- Pencil sharpener
- Scissors
- Ruler
Clothing/shoes
- School uniforms or dress-code required attire
- Gym clothes
- Shoes and/or athletic-style sneakers
- Socks and underwear
- Winter coat
- Winter hat
- Gloves or mittens
What if I can't afford all of these supplies?
Take a look around your home. You'd be surprised at how many supplies you already own.
Shop the sales! Target, Staples and walmart constantly have sales. Even more so the first 2 weeks of September with clearance.
Printers and ink can cost a lot. Take advantage of local libraries.
Check out local thrift stores, or contact friends for items or hand me downs. Some people only get a season before their child grows and can no longer wear something. Especially winter items and backpacks.
Contact local organizations like Salvation Army, Boys and Girls club, YMCA.
Contact me at amym@macaronikid.com. We will try to help you acquire the items you need in an anonymous way. No child should go to school without.
