Having navigated the school supply shopping scene for 13 years now, I can confidently say I’ve mastered the art of getting everything we need: lined paper, pencils, index cards, and three-ring binders. Plus, we’ll be stocking up on spiral notebooks, glue sticks, folders (no prongs, please!), disinfectant wipes, tissues, and those reliable pink erasers. But I’ve also learned there are a few other items I absolutely need—let’s call them “school sanity-saver supplies.” These are the essentials that you won’t find at the front of your local store when you need them the most.
1. Some Form of Stress Relief
Whether it’s a nice bottle of wine or some comfy workout gear, find what helps you survive the chaos of homework and projects. Personally, I’m all about running these days, so I’ll be picking up some new running shoes alongside my kids’ lunch boxes. If a glass of red wine helps calm the storm of a hectic evening, then pour yourself a little and take a deep breath.
2. A Fully Finished Science Project
That’s right—get ahead of the game and complete a science project over the summer. You know the one: the tri-fold display board, complete with graphs and a hypothesis on why plants don’t thrive on soda. If you’ve been through the middle school madness before, you’re nodding in agreement. Let’s avoid that last-minute scramble and tackle these big projects while the kids are complaining about boredom.
3. Emergency Cash Stash
Last year, I found myself writing checks for $1 more times than I care to admit. This year, I’m keeping some cash hidden for those frantic mornings when my child suddenly remembers they need a dollar for a school event. Seriously, when can I just leave a few blank checks with the school office?
4. Costumes for Themed Days
Hit up thrift stores this summer to build a costume collection for your kid’s various themed days in school. I love how creative the teachers get, but between Pinterest moms and crafty grandmas, I need to be prepared. I’ve already snagged a colonial outfit that works for multiple themes, so I can relax a little this year.
5. Contact Info for Fellow ‘Borrower Moms’
If you haven’t connected with those lifesaver moms who lend you supplies and help out in a pinch, now’s the time to do it. You know, the ones who can bail you out when you forget shinguards or a project that’s due. They’re invaluable when you’re drowning in missed permission slips and need a last-minute costume or baking recipe.
6. The Power of Saying No
There’s one phrase that can save you from overcommitting: “I’m sorry, I can’t help with that.” Repeat it until it sticks. This doesn’t make you lazy or uninvolved; it makes you realistic. It’s okay to step back and let the newer moms take over some tasks while you focus on what truly matters. Remember, it’s about finishing strong as you approach the end of this school journey.
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In summary, as the school year approaches, remember that it’s not just about gathering supplies for the kids, but also about finding what you need to maintain your sanity. From stress relief to practical costumes, being prepared can make all the difference.