School Supplies

Purchasing school supplies is always a struggle between parents and children. Parents need to make the back-to-school shopping as economical as possible, while kids want to get the latest and greatest trends that usually break a pocketbook. Arming yourself with a list of needs and compromising on items can make the shopping trip as smooth as possible.

Schools, both elementary and high school, usually print a list of supplies that are needed about a month before the year begins. These lists can be found in the newspaper, at local discount stores, malls, and at registration. It is important to shop according to the list, because some items are specific — for example, safe-guard scissors for younger children or a certain type of calculator as your student grows.

Typical items for elementary students include:

• 2-4 folders
• Lined notebook paper
• Assignment notebook
• No. 2 pencils
• Box of crayons, markers or colored pencils
• Scissors
• Small calculator
• Book bag
• Box of facial tissue
• Gym shoes
• 1-2 padlocks
• Glue
• Tape
• Pens in red, blue, and black
• Box or bag to hold supplies

When your children enter junior high and high school, you may notice the list becoming more specific, and often more expensive. Items your teenager might need are:

• Graphing calculator with specific functions
• Protractor
• Ruler
• Notebook for every class
• Gym shoes
• Gym clothes
• Padlocks
• Book covers
• Pens
• No. 2 pencils
• Specific software for computer or engineering classes
• 3-ring binder
• Thesaurus and/or dictionary

Again, these lists vary by grade and by school. It is important to buy the correct school supplies, especially if the list is quite specific. Teachers and schools require certain things for a reason, and your child may not have the correct item. This leaves your child feeling embarrassed, and you spending double because you did not follow the guidelines to begin with.

Most parents anticipate several arguments while shopping for school clothes. However, school supplies come in such a variety of products and brands that you may be facing a battle in the office supply section as well.

One thing that you, as a parent, can do before heading to the store is to go over ads in the newspaper and talk with your child about expectations regarding their supplies. Explain to your children that you will not be able to buy everything brand name. For example, if you purchase the Adidas gym shoes, your son/daughter will not be able to get an Eddie Bauer brand book bag. Write down all big item compromises, so that there will be no arguing at the store.

Another way to compromise when shopping for school supplies is to give your (older) child a set amount of money, and a partial list of supplies. Allow him to pick out those supplies on the list. He must get everything on the list with the money. (Make sure you double check that things meet requirements.) Not only is this a way to compromise, but it teaches children about saving, money, and wants versus needs.

Some parents strike a compromise with older children by setting a certain amount aside for each supply need. If the child wants to buy something more expensive, he has to pitch in money of his own.

Younger children usually do not understand the concept of money and cost. However, they are also easier to direct. Pick out a few things, and give your child a choice. This way, he is not overwhelmed. At the same time, you control what is chosen by picking out things in the price range you can afford.

Finally, if you have multiple children, consider buying in bulk. Things like pencils, pens, notebook paper, folders, and face tissues are all fairly standard items that can be used in all grade levels. Even if you do not have a membership at a club, you can watch flyers and advertisements, and stock up when a good sale comes along. Because school supplies sometimes run out, having spares of certain items will come in handy throughout the school year.

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