‘Tis the season for buying back to school supplies, and if you are like most parents you are trying to get the most supplies for your buck. Figuring out which school supplies you really need and which ones you can pass on is one of the first ways to make your dollar go farther. If you are unsure about which supplies you can ditch on this year’s shopping list, take a look below at some helpful suggestions. You will find 10 back to school supplies you DON’T need, and can leave right on the store shelf. Here is what you need to know!
10 Back to School Supplies You Don’t Need
1. Pencil sharpeners.
Due to the mess they make, most teachers do not allow them in the classroom. They tend to be messy, create a distraction, and can even be dangerous to little fingers. Your child can use the classroom sharpener instead.
2. Pencil boxes.
Pencil boxes are bigger and clunky and can take up a lot of space in the desk. Instead, opt for a pencil bag that is soft and takes up less room.
3. Novelty erasers.
If you have ever tried using a novelty eraser (the fruit, animal, and character shaped ones) you will know that they don’t work. Instead, buy the standard pink erasers. While not fancy, they get the job done.
4. Novelty folders.
Before buying folders with characters on them, see if the teacher allows for them. Many teachers preferred solid colors which can be coded for each subject, so if you purchase a novelty folder it may not be used.
5. White out.
White Out tends to be another messy item that causes more of a distraction than it does help. Unless the teacher requests it, skip the White Out and opt for erasable pen instead.
6. Colored highlighters.
While they sure are pretty, chances are a yellow highlighter will do the trick. Avoid buying the colorful multipacks and stick to the solid yellow highlighter.
7. Novelty glue.
There is neon glue, glitter glue, even scented glue. Again, this is more of a mess and a distraction and most teachers would prefer you go for basic, white school glue or glue stick.
8. Sharpies.
Sharpies are heavy duty and can soak quite easily through paper. They are also permanent. Unless the teacher asks for them, skip Sharpies and get basic markers instead. They are better for coloring and correcting papers.
9. Calculator.
Unless the teacher specifies, skip the calculator. There are many bedazzled and fun ones to pick from, but chances are they won’t be allowed in the classroom.
10. Mini hand sanitizers.
Many teachers are banning clip on or personal hand sanitizers because children tend to play with them or get distracted by them. Instead, invest in a bottle that the teacher can keep at the desk for class use.
Keep this list in mind while shopping for school supplies this year and you will not only save some cash, but save a little hassle as well!
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