Going back to school is stressful and exciting. To make it easier for everyone, it’s nice to have a back-to-school essentials checklist. The following is a complete checklist:

Clothing

Every child needs clothes to go back to school, and it’s the perfect time to go through their closet and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, or is worn or stained. Also, remember that being cool in school is often based on appearances, so make sure your child looks and feels their best. Also, make sure they have the clothing required by their school, this means a uniform, gym clothes, a jacket if it’s cold outside, etc.

Shoes

Many kids walk to school, or at least to the bus stop, so having the right footwear is an important part of their back-to-school checklist. They need to have shoes that fit the school’s requirements, some schools, for example, do not allow flip-flops, or backless shoes. Your child may also need a pair of shoes for gym class. A good pair of sturdy tennis shoes will help prevent accidents or injuries during physical education classes.

Locks

While the school may provide locks for your student’s lockers, they may also need a lock for their bike or skateboard when they go to school. They may need a lock for their lunch box or backpack if there are theft problems at their school. So, invest in a few different types of locks to make it easier for your child to get back to school.

School supplies

While you can try to anticipate the school supplies they will need for the year, a better option is to get the list provided by your school district. Each school district provides lists of supplies needed by different grade levels and will often provide them to local vendors, such as Wal-Mart. So if you can’t find it on your school’s website, or you didn’t get the list of registration materials, you can usually get one from the store.

Backpack

A child’s backpack is a big part of who he is, especially when he’s in elementary school. It is the only item that they take to school with them every day and that they always wear. So it is an accessory worth spending a bit more on. Also, you need to make sure you find one that is supportive so their backs don’t get hurt from the heavy load of books. Make sure you get one with chest straps, and that it’s the right size for your frame, so that it stays where it’s supposed to.

Water bottle

Children need hydration. It will help them be sharper in class, keep them healthy, and protect them from the urge to eat sweets and junk food.

Vaccines

Every year your child must be up to date on their immunizations and the records must be provided to the school, so call your doctor, get the immunizations, and get copies of the records.