As a mom of three boys, I want to make sure that I do what I can to keep them motivated and excited about learning. That includes investing in all the back to school essentials that will make them look and feel good. I know that when I used to go into an office for work, staying organized and having a dedicated, quiet workspace definitely helped my mental focus.
The same holds true now that I am a stay-at-home mom. Staying organized and having a quiet, dedicated workspace is just as important now as it ever was. I have come to realize that, often times, children need the same thing to help with their mental focus.
Additionally, when I look good, I feel good! This is true for anyone at any age, even school children! My favorite part of “back to school season” as a child was getting new clothes and shoes to show all my friends. I was also really excited about choosing a new backpack and putting all of my school supplies into the little compartments. You know you were too lol! Typically, teachers send home a school supply list, so this is not that. This back to school essentials list is more focused on organization, functionality, and fashion. Let’s get into it!
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Top 10 Back to School Essentials
1. Digital Alarm Clock
It is back to school time which means it is almost back to waking up early and being on a schedule, If your child is old enough, an alarm clock is a great way to help them start learning discipline and responsibility. I really like this REACHER digital alarm clock because it looks cool, it’s inexpensive, and it’s easy to use. For my oldest son, he knows when his alarm goes off, he’s supposed to get up, use the bathroom and get dressed. Of course, I still follow-up to make sure he’s doing those things lol.
2. Backpack
Just about every kid loves getting a new backpack for the school year. This Asge boys backpack is perfect because it has three separate zippered compartments. If your student uses laptops at school, this is a huge plus! Amazon is a great place to find a cool backpack because there are so many choices. This is especially helpful for those older kids who no longer feel cool wearing the character backpacks that hit the shelves at Walmart and Target every year.
3. Shoes
Surprisingly, Amazon is awesome for finding some good deals on name brand shoes. These adidas Grand Court sneakers are so classic, and they come in several cool color options. Make sure you get in on these early as the styles and sizes run out quickly!
4. Water Bottle
These days, no one really drinks out of the school water fountains. Parents are encouraged to send their kids to school with a water bottle. This was not a thing when I was in school. However, now that it is, finding a good water bottle from the start will save you money in the long run. I cannot tell you how many water bottles we’ve broken and had to replace. These Simple Modern water bottles have honestly held up so well. They are awesome for keeping ice water cold all day long and come in a large variety of beautiful colors.
5. Desk Organizer
This back to school essentials item is one of my favorites. I don’t know about your kids, but mine are messy. This Marbrasse desk organizer will help them stay organized and keep you sane lol. I love this one because everything has its place. No more tossing everything into one junky, junk drawer!
6. Desk Lamp
Good lighting is important for good eye health and overall alertness. I prefer for my sons to do work at their desk instead of at the kitchen table. There are just too many distractions around for that. This sleek looking AFROG LED desk lamp is amazing! It comes with 5 different color modes and brightness levels. The price is also very reasonable.
7. Dry Erase Calendar
Now, this item is more for you, mom, than the kids. The school year is very often a busy time especially if your kids are involved in extracurricular activities. I love having this dry erase calendar board to keep me organized. Of course, I can schedule things in my phone, but I also like having a visible reminder hung up in my kitchen.
8. Desk Timer
Next on the list of back to school essentials, is a timer. Most elementary schools in the U.S. have daily reading requirements for students. Typically, it means a minimum of about 15 to 20 minutes of reading per day. My oldest son has a bad habit of using me as his timer. “Am I done? Has it been 15 minutes yet?” This TIME TIMER kids visual desk timer is the perfect solution! The really great thing about this timer is the color blocking on the face of the clock that shows how much time is left. I feel like this timer is also a great teaching tool for understanding the concept of time.
9. Book Set
Another important item to have when it comes to developing a love for reading is an interesting book set. I remember reading these Hardy Boys mystery books as a kid. They really helped me enjoy reading and did a great job of holding my attention. Even if this genre isn’t something your kid would like, finding books that they enjoy reading is the key. Those 15 to 20 minutes will fly by!
10. Bean Bag Chair
This last item on the list is probably the most pricey. However, I truly believe that setting up a comfortable reading space for your student will help them become immersed in the book. Laying on the couch while others are making noise around you or sitting at a desk just don’t have the same effect. This memory foam filled bean bag chair would make the perfect, relaxing reading spot for your student.
I hope you found these back to school essentials suggestions helpful. If so please share it.
Have a blessed and safe school year!