The Back-to-School Checklist You Didn't Realize You Needed

By Samantha Netkin

Backpack? Check! Notebook? Check! You may think you've covered all of the back-to-school basics, but what about the not-so-obvious essentials? To help make sure your child is fully prepared for the new school year, we've created a checklist of the things you might be forgetting.

POPSUGAR Photography | Emily Faulstich
  • Extra socks: Between crafting and running around the playground, school can get messy. Make sure your kid has a fresh pair of socks on hand.
  • Allergy relief: Allergies don't just occur outside, and the last thing you want is for your kid to be stuffed up or sneezing in the middle of a math lesson. Opt for an over-the-counter allergy nasal spray that is approved to treat both nasal congestion and itchy, watery eyes.
  • Gentle wipes: Include a pack of wipes in your kid's backpack for those untimely messes and for those that are bound to happen around lunchtime.
  • Refillable water bottle: By having a fun or personalized water bottle, your kid will be reminded to keep hydrated all day long.
  • Rain jacket: You never know when a storm can roll in, so make sure your little one doesn't get soaked by investing in a compact raincoat.
  • Emergency card with contact info: Print out a little card with your information, including (but not limited to) your cell phone number and any relevant addresses. Get it laminated for extra sturdiness!
  • Hand sanitizer: Germs your kid picks up at school are sure to find their way into your home, so make sure to buy a kid-friendly sanitizer.
  • Antibiotic ointment: If you have a certain brand of choice, it's always a good idea to pack an oil-based ointment or cream for any unexpected mishaps.
  • Pack of underwear: Accidents happen! Including an extra pack of underwear in your kid's backpack will ensure any mishaps go unnoticed by peers.
  • A note from you: Despite all of the commotion the first day of school brings, don't forget to put a sweet note in your kid's lunchbox or notebook.

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