I went to school in London and loved it – no, it wasn’t an exciting exchange student situation, it’s where I grew up and spent the first 27 years of my life. I loved everything about school – the learning, the teachers, making friends (even though, by no means was I a “cool kid”), even the uniform. But I especially loved that first day of school vibe – where you have new clothes, an unopened notebook, and fresh stationery – brand new pens, and clean, sharpened pencils, all the back to school must haves.
My little girl starts TK this Fall and I’m so excited for her. She’s been at daycare since she was a little over five months, so it’s going to be an extremely sad, and emotional day, when she completes her last day, but I’m really looking forward to getting her into “big school”. We talk a lot about her new school – we drive past it and show her the playground, and explain how we’d be able to walk there to drop her off. She still seems a little hesitant, and explained that she was nervous, which I told her was completely fine and it was okay to feel nervous – that meant something exciting was going to happen.
To alleviate some of her anxiety, we decided to shop! I pulled up the Amazon app and we searched for it all – a new backpack, water bottle, dress for the first day (though the Brit in me really wishes there was a uniform!), shoes. I started looking for a pencil case, notebook, pens, pencils – what did she actually need, I wondered. I asked around, and did a little research, and here’s what I’ve got:
Top 10 Back To School Must Haves
#1 – Backpack
Did you know there are different backpack sizes by age? Even if your little one already has a backpack they’ve been using in preschool, you may need to upgrade to an elementary school sized one. Target lists theirs by age categories, which is super helpful! Explore on Target.
#2 – Water Bottle
Having a sturdy reusable water bottle is a must. This one is my kiddo’s favorite!
#3 – Lunch or Snack Box
This is one of Amazon’s most popular lunch boxes and comes with carrying case. For more lunch box recommendations, check out this post with more great ideas!
#4 – Notebook
I love these Colours of the rainbow notebooks (though you could probably pick up some fun ones from Daiso or the 99c Store!).
#5 – Pencil Case
I personally cannot wait until I can get this one for my son! It also comes in different colors and other designs.
#6 – Pens, Colored Pencils, and/or Crayons
These sweet-scented crayons would’ve been a big hit for me at school.
Also, here are some recommended Pencils and Colored Pencils!
#7 – Glue Sticks
You can’t go wrong with this classic school favorite.
#8 – Erasers
How fun do these animal-themed erasers look?!
#9 – Scissors
Check out this scissor set for crafting!
#10 – Tissues or Wet Wipes
These extra soft tissues are a classroom must-have.
And for those sticky fingers, these wet wipes are a necessity.
Hopefully this list helps you get all your back to school must haves. And if your kiddo is anything like mine, don’t forget to pack a snack – or bring one at pick up!
