Essential Back to School Supplies List & Free Printable Checklist 2021

As the summer days fade into the briskness of fall, it’s that time of year again: back to school! Preparing your child for a new academic year can be both exciting and overwhelming. To make your shopping experience smoother and ensure your child has all the necessary supplies, we’ve created the ultimate Back to School Supplies List for 2021, complete with a free printable checklist.

The Importance of Being Prepared

Getting your child ready for school isn’t just about the supplies; it’s about setting the stage for a successful year. When students are equipped with the right tools, they’re more confident and ready to tackle their studies. From toddlers starting preschool to high school seniors preparing for graduation, the right supplies can make all the difference.

What’s New for 2021?

Before diving into the essential back-to-school supplies, it’s important to consider any changes to school routines due to ongoing health concerns. Many schools are implementing new protocols, and having the right supplies can aid in keeping your child healthy and focused on learning.

Free Printable Checklist

To help you stay organized amidst the buzz of back-to-school shopping, we’ve designed a FREE printable checklist. At the end of this article, you’ll find a link to download it, making it easier for you to track what you have and what you still need to buy.

Essential Back to School Supplies for 2021

1. Writing Tools

Writing tools are fundamental for all students. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll want to consider:

• Pencils: Mechanical or traditional, a good supply of pencils is critical for jotting down notes and completing homework.
• Pens: Black, blue, and red pens are typically required. Consider erasable pens for younger students.
• Highlighters: Bright colors help in categorizing notes, making them easier to study and recall information.
• Markers and Colored Pencils: These are great for art projects or making study notes more visually appealing.
• Erasers: Don’t forget these! They are essential for neat writing.

2. Paper Products

Paper is the foundation for many school assignments. Ensure you have the following items on your list:

• Notebook Paper: Wide-ruled for middle schoolers or college-ruled for high school students.
• Notebooks: Spiral or composition notebooks depending on the subjects.
• Binders: Useful for organizing loose papers in a tabbed system.
• Index Cards: Great for flashcards and study aids.

3. Art Supplies

Many schools incorporate arts into their curriculum. Having art supplies can be beneficial:

• Construction Paper: Perfect for various projects and crafts.
• Glue Sticks & Liquid Glue: All-purpose adhesives are essential for project work.
• Scissors: A good pair of scissors is a must-have for any student.
• Paints and Brushes: Basic sets of acrylic or tempera paints for art classes.

4. Tech Tools

In the age of digital education, technology tools are becoming increasingly essential. Here’s what you might need:

• Laptops or Tablets: Depending on school requirements, these could be essential for assignments and research.
• Headphones: A good pair of noise-isolating headphones for online learning or studying.
• USB Drives: Useful for saving assignments and transferring data.
• Chargers: Ensure your child has chargers for all their tech devices.

5. Personal Items

Personal supplies often include hygiene products and comfort items:

• Face Masks: Due to ongoing health protocols, durable, comfortable face masks are essential.
• Hand Sanitizer: A small bottle can help keep germs at bay throughout the school day.
• Lunchbox: Consider one that’s insulated to keep food fresh.
• Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle encourages hydration without contributing to waste.

6. Organizational Supplies

Staying organized is vital for student success. Here are items to help:

• Backpack: Choose one that’s spacious and comfortable, with adequate support for carrying supplies.
• Planner or Calendar: A way for students to keep track of assignments and important dates.
• Sticky Notes: Perfect for reminders and jotting down quick notes.

7. Optional Supplies

While these aren’t always mandatory, they can enhance your child’s school experience:

• Calculator: Scientific or graphing calculators can be necessary for math classes.
• Protractor and Ruler: Useful for geometry or drafting assignments.
• Board Games or Puzzles: Great for downtime or developing problem-solving skills.

Shopping Tips

1. Review School Supply Lists: Always double-check any supply lists provided by your child’s school.

2. Set a Budget: This helps to avoid overspending. School supplies can add up quickly!

3. Buy in Bulk: Purchasing commonly-used items in bulk can save money in the long run.

4. Shop Sales: Back-to-school sales occur in July and August; take advantage of discounts.

5. Ask Older Students: If you have older children, ask them what supplies they found useful last year.

6. Get Creative: Often, arts and crafts supplies can be repurposed for school projects.

Bonus: Free Printable Checklist

To make your shopping experience a breeze, we’ve created a user-friendly checklist you can print out or save on your phone. This checklist includes all the essential items listed above, allowing you to easily check off items as you purchase them.

Download Your Free Printable Checklist Here!

Download Back to School Supplies Checklist 2021

Conclusion

With the right supplies ready, your child will be well-equipped for a successful school year. Use our printable checklist to ensure no important items are overlooked, and remember to stay organized throughout the shopping process. Here’s to a productive and happy back-to-school season in 2021!

While the specifics of this supply list will evolve with each passing year, the importance of preparation, organization, and maintaining a positive attitude toward learning will remain timeless. With everything ready and in place, you can confidently send your child off to a year full of discovery and growth. Happy shopping!