It’s school supply season! The first two weeks of August is always a GREAT time to catch back-to-school deals on school supplies. However, before you begin your shopping adventure, let me share a few of my FAVORITE school supplies that just might change your life this year. Think that’s a bold statement? Well, wait and see. By the end, you just might agree.
1. Twistables
Tired of broken crayons all the time or having to always remove the paper when you want more writing area? Try Twistables. We’ve made the switch and now I’ll never go back! They don’t break and you don’t have to worry about the paper! So worth it!
2. A NICE Electric Pencil Sharpener
We have been trying to use small hand sharpeners and battery power sharpeners for a few years, but they always seem to break. Last spring I finally had the realization that SOMETIMES getting a better product is worth it. In this case, getting a GOOD pencil sharpener. We ending up getting this one and haven’t been disappointed.
3. A Pack of Erasers
Up until this year we were always running through the eraser tops of our pencils (what can I say–we make a lot of mistakes). 😉 However, when I found this BIG pack of erasers for so CHEAP, I knew our problem was solved. Now we just need something to keep the pencils from walking off!
4. Pencil Grip Writing Aids
Learning how to hold a pencil properly can be really hard for some kids…okay, my kids. So, I was very excited to learn about these pencil grippers from our physical therapist. They have since helped BOTH girls to hold their pencils correctly WITHOUT me constantly reminding them. Woot!
5. Flashcards
Every week we play some kind of flashcard game to help us memorize factual information like math facts, states and capitals, foreign language, etc. Pair a good set of flashcards with some fun flashcard games, and you have just transformed the boring into exciting.
States and Capitals Flashcards
6. Laminator
This laminator has lasted me years now, and I don’t know what I’d do without it. We use on printables we will be using over and over again, for the creation of our own dry-erase worksheets, and even for organization labels. If there are a lot of times you want to laminate something, but don’t want to always make the trek to your local office store, this is a fabulous alternative.
7. A Balance Board
While it’s not your typical school supply, we have found out that a balance board is a worthwhile investment for fidgety kids. My girls sit on ours during carpet time, put their feet on it under the table to keep their feet occupied while doing book work, and balance on it during break time to refocus. And, my favorite trait? It doesn’t have to be aired up!
8. Pencil Pouches
We love pencil pouches at our house, but not for what you think! No, instead of pencils we like to use it to store our dry erase cards from Usborne, our flashcards, and things like that.
9. Plastic Folders
No more buying those cheap paper folders that fall apart. These folders may cost more initially but they can be used over and over!
10. Brain Break Cards
We use these brain break cards at least once every school day. It gives the girls a break from school, rejuvenates their mind, and helps develop their coordination skills. It’s not your typical school supply but definitely one worth considering since they are free!