|
BRIGHT IDEA! Learning can (and should!) be fun. There are an abundance of fun learning games on the market. They can strengthen logic and verbal skills, as well as teach history and science. Read our guide on Educational Toys to learn more. |
|||
|
|
School Supplies
Back to school. So many emotions. So much to do.
Without the right supplies, learning can be a challenge. If your child's school provides a check list of recommended products, be sure to stick with that. Most large office supply stores, such as Staples and Office Max, have some school supplies checklists for classes and/or grades at local schools. Below is a roundup of some common back-to-school goods. Shopping online during this hectic time may be more convenient -- no waiting in lines, no empty shelves, and more time to have fun with your kids before they head back to the daily grind. Some supplies won't be needed til they're a few years into schooling (like
graphing calculators
Writing Utensils
It's not just No. 2 pencils anymore. The days of blackboards and placing an apple on the teacher's desk are fading into a vague memory. Kids now have a growing list of writing supplies -- ballpoint, felt-tipped, pencils, highlighters, and mechanical pencils. Make sure your little one is well-stocked. Here are some common writing utensils needed in the modern classroom.
| Things to Write With | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
| Writing Accessories | |||
|
|
|
|
|
Paper Goods
These days, being prepared for class demands far more than a folder full of loose leaf. You'll need some other essentials to facilitate the learning process and keeping organized all the while. The essential
spiral notebooks
- a book for jotting down homework assignments
-
graph paper
for math class
-
index cards
for flash cards
(grab the largest pack you can find if your child is taking any foreign language classes!)
|
|
|
|
|
Spiral
For note taking.
|
Assignment Notebooks
For keeping up with due dates. |
For keeping your binder stocked and math graphs neat. |
Flash cards are a great tactic for memorization. |
Organization Helpers
Teaching a child the importance of organization is no easy feat.
Book covers
|
|
|
|
|
|
Covers will protect and help your child distinguish one book from another. |
Mini Stapler
So basic, yet so essential.
|
Binders
Promotes good organization skills. Keep one binder for each class. |
A simple post-it or paper clip can keep important pages flagged while studying for quick reference. |
For what is most likely, the messiest area of all. |
Tools
QUICK TIP
: Invest in a quality classic item just once (a
Swingline stapler
|
|
|
|
Arts & Crafts Supplies
Whether it's art class, or a special project that begs for an artistic touch, these products are important to have on hand, if you don't already. Want some more ideas on art and crafts? Check out our
Arts and Crafts Guide
| Everything For Your Baby Picasso | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At-Home Must-Haves
A special project, a tough paper, the science fair-- who knows when your little one will be thrown a curve ball? Be prepared for those late-night cram sessions and projects.
|
|
|
|
|
Ribbon
That presentation has turned into an artistic venture. |
A good paper needs a good cover.
|
Printer Paper
Save the trip to a 24-hour printing store. |
Great to keep all these items consolidated and organized. |
Electronics and Software
Technology is not just for adults anymore! Keep your kid up-to-date and educated on the latest technology. It's quickly evolving, and important to keep up with.
|
|
|
|
|
Some include spelling, vocabulary, grammar, keyboarding skills, math and more.
|
Roll the pen over the text like you would with a highlighter and then download to your computer for instant notes. |
Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 3.0
This ergonomic keyboard has an optical mouse that works on just about any surface. Comfortable for long hours at the desktop computer. |
A great learning tool for the home. To learn more about them, please see our guide on Educational Software for Children .
|
Backpacks and Totes
You've got the goods. Next up: How will your little one get them all there? Try these products below. Make sure the backpack is comfortable to wear and is the right size for the course load your child will have. Check out this article for information on safe backpack loads for children.
|
|
|
|
|
Lunch Totes
|
Doubles as a roll along, and a backpack. |
Designed to evenly distribute the weight of laptops, notebooks, binders, and books on your child's back to make carrying a bit easier. |
Not recommended for real little ones as they may throw off their balance, these totes are better for older, stronger children. |
External Links
- About -- Supplies for grades 10-12.
- iVillage -- 8 ways to stock up for school.
- Staples -- School supply list, divided by grades.
- Real Simple -- Back-to-School 101