Starting middle school is an exciting time for tweens. Parents may or may not realize that school supplies are quite different from what was needed for elementary school. It is very likely that a tween's middle school has a list of specific school supplies needed, or they may even be listed on the School Supply List website. Here is an essential list of school supplies for middle schoolers who are going back to school this fall.
Basic School Supplies
These are the basic school supplies that all students need across the board. Of course, specific middle schools may have different requests.
- No. 2 pencils (preferred by most schools)
- Colored pencils or pencil crayons
- Large erasers (usually pink or white)
- Hand-held pencil sharpener
- Ballpoint pens (blue/black and red ink)
- Highlighters
- Washable markers
- Wide ruled spiral notebooks
- Mini stapler
- Scissors
- Glue sticks
- Wide ruled loose-leaf paper for standard 3-ring binders
- Ruler (basic English and metric measurements)
- Two combination locks (unless built-in locks are provided for hall and gym lockers)
- Lunch bag (insulated will help keep cold foods fresh)
Note: Pens should be ballpoint. Most teachers frown on gel pens because of the length of time it takes for them to dry.
Organizational School Supplies
Help a tween stay organized and able to find his supplies easily with these items. Being organized is a great way to get off on the right foot, and stay on track with assignments during the entire school year.
- 3-Ring binders (usually 1-inch size, and 1 for each class)
- Subject dividers
- Folders (with pockets)
- Pencil case
- Portable, small 3-hole punch
- Index cards (ruled and blank styles)
- Student calendar to keep track of assignments
- Backpack that is sturdy and heavy duty
School Study Aids
School study aids can come in handy at a moment's notice. These essential items will help keep a tween feeling empowered to do his best all year long.
- Calculator
- Protractor (depending on tween's math class)
- Pocket dictionary
- Small notebook to take general notes
Personal Hygiene Items
Many tweens miss school because of colds, the flu, and other ailments. Having these items on hand will help lessen the chance that a child will become ill.
- Facial tissues
- Hand sanitizer (mini bottles)
It is a good idea to shop for school supplies early to avoid the crowds and lessen the risk of not being able to get what is needed because it is sold out. It also helps a tween feel comfortable with the fact that he is ready to start in a new school the right way. Remember that many school supplies need to be replaced throughout the school year.
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