Kindergarten School Supply List
The start of kindergarten is an exciting milestone for both children and parents. As the first step into formal education, kindergarten introduces children to new learning experiences, routines, and responsibilities. To ensure your child is fully prepared for this big transition, it’s important to gather the necessary school supplies that will support their learning and help them feel confident in the classroom.
In this article, we’ll cover a typical kindergarten school supply list, including essential items and optional extras. We’ll also offer tips on how to organize your child’s supplies to make the first day of school a breeze.
Table of Contents
Typical Kindergarten School Supply List
While each school may provide its own specific supply list, there are several common items that most kindergartners will need. Below is a general list of school supplies that will help your child start the year on the right foot.
1. Backpack
A backpack is essential for carrying school supplies, lunch, and any important notes or papers that come home. It should be large enough to fit a folder, lunchbox, and extra clothing but not too big for a kindergartener to carry comfortably.
- Tip: Choose a backpack with multiple compartments to help your child stay organized. Opt for one with adjustable straps for a comfortable fit.
2. Lunchbox and Water Bottle
If your child will be bringing lunch from home, they’ll need a lunchbox and a water bottle. Many kindergartners have snack time as well, so the lunchbox should have space for snacks, too.
- Tip: Choose an easy-to-open lunchbox and water bottle that your child can manage independently.
3. Folders
Most kindergarten classrooms will request two-pocket folders to help keep important papers and assignments organized. These folders are often used for sending notes home and collecting completed worksheets.
- Tip: Choose durable plastic folders that can withstand frequent use throughout the year.
4. Crayons
Crayons are a staple in any kindergarten classroom. Many schools request a box of 24-count crayons, which offers a wide range of colors without being overwhelming for little hands.
- Tip: Look for washable crayons to make cleanup easier at home and school.
5. Markers
A set of washable markers is another common item on kindergarten supply lists. These are often used for coloring, drawing, and creative projects.
- Tip: Opt for broad-line markers, which are easier for younger children to grip and control.
6. Pencils
Kindergartners will need pencils for writing, drawing, and practicing their letters and numbers. Many schools specify large beginner pencils or triangular pencils, which are designed to help children develop proper grip.
- Tip: Pre-sharpened pencils can save time and ensure your child is ready to write from day one.
7. Pencil Box or Pouch
A pencil box or pencil pouch is useful for keeping smaller supplies like pencils, erasers, and crayons organized. This helps your child keep track of their items and reduces the chance of losing supplies.
- Tip: Choose a sturdy, easy-to-open pencil box that won’t break easily during the school year.
8. Glue Sticks
Glue sticks are used frequently for art projects and hands-on learning activities. Most schools request several glue sticks since kindergartners tend to go through them quickly.
- Tip: Look for washable glue sticks to make cleanup easier both at home and at school.
9. Blunt-Tip Scissors
Blunt-tip scissors are a must-have for kindergarten craft projects. These safety scissors are designed for young children and allow them to cut paper safely.
- Tip: Practice using scissors at home if your child is not yet comfortable with them. Many kindergarten activities involve cutting, so it’s helpful for children to know how to use scissors before school starts.
10. Dry-Erase Markers
Many kindergarten classrooms use dry-erase boards for activities such as tracing letters, practicing spelling, or working on math problems. A few black dry-erase markers are often requested on supply lists.
- Tip: Consider low-odor markers, especially if the classroom spends a lot of time working with dry-erase materials.
11. Composition Notebooks
Some schools request composition notebooks for journaling, practicing writing, or other classroom activities. These are usually wide-ruled for younger children who are still developing their handwriting skills.
- Tip: Label your child’s notebook with their name to avoid mix-ups.
12. Colored Pencils
In addition to crayons, some supply lists include colored pencils for more detailed coloring and drawing activities.
- Tip: Make sure the pencils are pre-sharpened, and provide a small manual pencil sharpener if needed.
13. Erasers
Kindergartners will inevitably make mistakes while writing or drawing, so having a few large pink erasers or pencil-top erasers is essential.
- Tip: Avoid erasers with small parts or designs that may be distracting or difficult for little hands to use.
14. Tissues and Hand Sanitizer
Many kindergartens ask families to contribute communal items like tissues and hand sanitizer to help keep the classroom clean and germ-free.
- Tip: Teachers often appreciate extra supplies of tissues, especially during flu season. Consider sending in additional boxes throughout the year.
15. Change of Clothes
Accidents happen, and many schools request a change of clothes (including underwear and socks) to be kept in your child’s backpack or cubby. This ensures your child can quickly change if needed and continue with their day.
- Tip: Pack the extra clothes in a labeled zip-top bag and replace them as the seasons change.
Optional Kindergarten Supplies
In addition to the essentials, some parents choose to send a few additional items to help their child feel more comfortable and prepared for kindergarten.
1. Headphones
Some schools request headphones for use with classroom computers or tablets. These help children focus on their individual activities without being distracted by background noise.
- Tip: Choose over-the-ear headphones that are adjustable and comfortable for your child to wear.
2. Art Smock
For messy art projects, an art smock can help protect your child’s clothing. Some schools provide smocks, but others may request that students bring their own.
- Tip: An old oversized T-shirt can also work as an art smock if you don’t want to buy something new.
3. Small Blanket or Nap Mat
If your child’s kindergarten program includes rest time, they may need a small blanket or nap mat. This helps create a cozy environment for children to relax during the day.
- Tip: Be sure to label your child’s blanket or mat to avoid confusion during rest time.
Tips for Organizing and Labeling Supplies
To make the first day of kindergarten as smooth as possible, it’s helpful to organize and label your child’s school supplies ahead of time. Here are a few tips to help:
1. Label Everything
Kindergarten classrooms often involve sharing materials, so it’s important to label your child’s belongings with their name. This helps prevent items from getting lost or mixed up with other children’s supplies.
- Tip: Use permanent markers or personalized name labels that are waterproof and durable.
2. Separate Supplies by Category
Organize your child’s supplies in their backpack by category. For example, place pencils, erasers, and crayons in the pencil box, while notebooks and folders can go in the main compartment of the backpack.
- Tip: If your child’s teacher asks for specific supplies to be turned in on the first day, pack these items separately from the ones your child will keep in their desk.
3. Prepare Extra Supplies
It’s a good idea to buy a few extra supplies (like glue sticks, crayons, or tissues) to have on hand at home. You can also send extra items to school mid-year when supplies start to run low.
Conclusion
Preparing for the first day of kindergarten is an exciting time, and gathering the right school supplies is an important part of getting your child ready for success. By ensuring they have the essential items—like a backpack, crayons, pencils, and folders—you’ll help your child feel confident and prepared for the new experiences ahead.
Remember to check your child’s specific school supply list, as each school may have unique requirements. With a little planning and organization, you can ensure your child starts their kindergarten journey feeling excited, ready, and well-equipped for all the fun and learning that awaits.
