Now’s the time to fulfill those school supply lists!
Starting in late August and running right through Labor Day, almost every store that carries school supplies has a blowout sale on everything your kids need, from backpacks to paper. You can get terrific deals, so now’s the time to stock up. Some states offer tax free shopping in the days leading up to the first day of school, so check for this freebie and get your school supply lists fulfilled, to save even more.
let us start with the basic school supply list for grade schoolers. If this is your first year of buying school supplies, do not be surprised by some of the items you’d think the school would ordinarily provide. These days, teachers are reaching into their own pockets to get supplies for ordinary class activities and lessons.
The school pencil box is essential, as is getting one which is the right size. The recommended size is about 5 inches wide by 8 inches long and 2 inches deep. What goes in here? Standard #2 pencils, of course, along with a pack of colored pencils, a medium size box of crayons (a box of 16 works), some water based markers, a 6 inch ruler, scissors (blunt nosed for young kids), a pencil sharpener, glue sticks and an eraser.
When you get glue sticks, remember how fast kids use these up. If you see an economy 10-pack on sale, go for it. As for erasers, those fancy patterned ones are cute, but do not do the erasing job like the plain old fashioned pink erasers.
Pads of drawing and construction papers may be the only other items you will need.
For kids in middle or high school, the school supply list is a bit more extensive. In addition to the pencil box contents listed above, you will also need several 3-ring binders with pockets in the front and back, a couple of sets of dividers, a set of highlighter pens, and several packs of loose-leaf paper.
Although your school supply list from your school may not include the following items, your kids will be able to organize school life better if they have these on hand. A day planner book allows them to pencil in assignments and due dates, so they can see what they need to accomplish at a glance. A separate notebook is useful to jot down detailed assignment notes. A few blank CDs prove useful at home and may be required at school.
Unless your school’s lockers are equipped with built-in locks, get two combination locks, for hall and gym lockers.
Wait until you have your school’s required school supply list in hand before purchasing a calculator or backpack. Calculators may require specific functions. Backpacks on rollers may not be acceptable.
Stock up on printer cartridges and paper during these school supply sales. You can get the kids set in a single shopping trip, at savings you will appreciate!
