There’s no way to sugarcoat it: The school season looks a lot different this year. Whether your child is learning at home or physically back in school, we’ve had to adapt to a bizarre reality in the “new normal.” Some students are smiling under a mask in their first-day-of-school photos, some parents are juggling coordinating homeschooling with their normal responsibilities, and some teachers are presenting to a sea of dark squares with students’ camera’s turned off. Raising a child is stressful enough—and all of these added changes can be disconcerting even for the most resilient, seasoned parents.
In order to maintain some semblance of normalcy and organization in the chaotic school year ahead, we’ve curated a list of ten must-have items that you didn’t even know you needed. From learning-at-home supplies to precautionary products, there’s something for every parent to help you feel confident and prepared!
Lap Desk
If you’re short on space to set up a designated desk or if your child prefers the flexibility of moving around, this fun and functional lap desk from Amazon is just the ticket. The lid provides a large, flat writing surface and doubles as a convenient storage compartment. The bottom legs fold up easily for transport or to accommodate a more compact design.
Blue Light Glasses
Those little eyes get just as strained as ours do from too much screen time! Blue light glasses can alleviate eye strain, reduce headaches or migraines caused by fatigue, and even prevent UV glare. These two-packs from Amazon come in a variety of colors and suit ages 3-12!
Whiteboard Calendar
Keeping a calendar front and center will provide structure and promote accountability. This farmhouse calendar from Etsy is just as beautiful as it is functional. Reduce the stress of staying on top of appointments and events by consolidating that information in one place where the whole family can see it at a glance.
Kid-Sized Headphones
If you have multiple students in the house who are attending a virtual classroom or you simply need a moment of quiet (no shame there!), children’s headphones are a wonderful investment. You don’t have to break the bank for a pair of quality children’s headphones. This pair from Target is affordable and comes with all the right features to help you and your child.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is one of the most essential steps to keeping your little ones healthy. Dehydration can result in poor concentration, headaches, and lethargy. Help your student stay alert and hydrated with a reusable water bottle. This insulated kid’s water bottle from Amazon has everything your active little ones need.
School Supply Kit
It wouldn’t be the start of the school year without a new set of school supplies! There is also something inspiring about beginning the year with a crisp new notebook or freshly sharpened pencil. This 45-piece kit has just what your child needs to kick the year off strong.
Face Masks
Masks are becoming a staple of the 2020 school uniform. Donning a mask can be an uncomfortable experience, especially for our little ones. It’s best to approach the subject with an encouraging and positive attitude. These trendy patterns from Bailey Blue come in a variety of sizes with options for adding a filter.
Divider Sticky Notes
Staying organized is so important to avoid feeling overwhelmed at the start of the year. We love these divider sticky notes that can be added to notebooks or textbooks.
Hand Sanitizer
Promoting frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer is a no-brainer this year. These sanitizing products from The Honest Company are hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested so you can disinfect with the peace of mind that you’re using a safe product.
Fidget Toys
Transitioning to the flow of a new school year can cause anxiety. Be prepared to help your child relieve some stress with this sensory fidget toy bundle from Amazon. If you’ve never used fidget toys, you might be surprised by how simply playing, squeezing, stretching, and flipping can soothe your child.
The Hello Cullie community is committed to lifting parents up in these challenging times and empowering you to treasure the best moments of the parenting experience. As we all navigate this – dare we say it – unprecedented time of our lives, we’re here to remind you that you can do this!
