As I dive into my 13th year of navigating the school supply aisles, I’ve become a seasoned veteran of the back-to-school hustle. I know the essentials: lined paper, pencils, index cards, and three-ring binders. We’ll definitely grab spiral notebooks, glue sticks, non-pronged folders, disinfectant wipes, tissues, and those classic pink erasers. But there are some overlooked items that every mom truly needs—like the must-haves that kids will remember at exactly 10 p.m. the night before they’re due. Let’s label these as “school sanity-saver supplies”—the stuff that isn’t on the shelves at Target right now.
1. Wine or Workout Gear. Or Both.
I’m more of a runner than a drinker, but whatever helps you survive the chaos of homework, multiplication tables, and reading logs, I say stock up! While I don’t advocate for a full-on wine binge, a glass of red can do wonders for your heart and mood. If it helps you prep those backpacks and organize shoes without losing your cool, don’t forget to grab a bottle. Personally, I’ll be lacing up some new running shoes alongside the kiddo’s lunch boxes, maybe even snagging a fresh pair of spandex capris and a race entry.
2. One Fully Assembled Science Project
You heard that right! Take a day this summer—when the kids are whining about boredom—and tackle an entire science project. Make that tri-fold display, write the hypothesis, create a bar graph, and present a well-researched theory on why soda is not plant food. Trust me, if you’ve already been through middle school with a child, you’re nodding along, reminiscing about the sleepless night spent frantically finishing projects. While you’re at it, whip up a shoebox diorama of Ohio, a book report on Hatchet, and an “All About Me” collage. Get these daunting tasks done ahead of time so they don’t haunt you later.
3. Emergency Cash Stash
Last year, I found myself writing checks for ONE DOLLAR more times than I care to admit. So this year, I’m tucking away some cash for those frantic mornings when a child exclaims they need a dollar for insert random school event here. Seriously, wouldn’t it be easier to just leave a blank check with the school’s bookkeeper?
4. Costumes for Dress-Up Days
Hit up the thrift stores this summer to stock your kid’s costume collection for the year’s various themed events in social studies, science, and math. I love my children’s school and appreciate the creative teaching methods, but the combination of Pinterest moms (myself included) and that one grandma who sews like a pro means I need to plan ahead. I’ve already scored a versatile colonial costume that can also double as a pilgrim outfit. #Winning.
5. Contact Information for Fellow ‘Borrower Moms’
If you don’t have these lifesavers on speed dial, get on it right now! These moms can save your sanity more than you’d think—especially when you forget to buy soccer gear just before the first practice or realize the costume you planned won’t work. They’re the ones you call when you’ve lost every permission slip, group project outline, and login for digital textbooks. Borrow their cleats, science projects, or even that coveted Hatchet copy. I’m always grateful for my fellow borrower moms who don’t bat an eye when I call them at the crack of dawn with a sleepy, “Oh no, I forgot…can I borrow one for school today?”
6. This One Important Phrase
And no, you can’t buy it or borrow it, but it’s priceless. Repeat after me: “I’m sorry. I can’t help with that.” Go on, say it again—no guilt attached! You’re not being lazy or uncaring; you’re being realistic. It’s totally fine to step back and let the new kindergarten moms take the reins for a bit. There’s no need to justify your decision. Remember, if you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed, it’s time to stop doing so much. Finish strong and embrace a “delegate, not dedicate” mindset. Trust me, volunteering in high school is way more fun—no glue sticks required!
For more tips on navigating parenting and making the most out of your school year, check out this resource on home insemination or learn about the benefits of an At-Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, this blog is a great source for pregnancy and home insemination advice.
In summary, as you prepare for another school year, remember to stock up on sanity-saving items and take care of yourself. You’ve got this!