My daughter started middle school this year, and we have bought a lot of things between the school supply list and other items that are both useful and necessities too. It helps to be prepared for school especially if you are transitioning from elementary school to middle school. Starting a new school is a big change, and with the right supplies, it helps to make the transition easier.
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Locker accessories
There are so many locker accessories out there to choose from. There are accessories that are just for fun, like string lights and locker rugs. However, there are helpful items to have too, like a locker shelf, small calendar, or other organizational items. One of the big things about middle school is trying to stay organized, and it helps if a student’s locker isn’t disorganized.
Comfortable backpack
One of my daughter’s big adjustments to middle school was simply having to carry around so much stuff. She has a huge binder, a laptop provided by the school, books, supplies, lunch, and so on. Not only that, but she has a walk to the bus stop, so a backpack with comfortable straps is a must, and one that can be easily washed. We also got something bigger than what the kids used in elementary school, since the kids are carrying much more now.
Laptop case
Our school provides the kids with laptops, and so it is important to have a proper case to transport it back and forth without damage. Lugging a laptop around all day is not necessarily something my daughter looks forward to, but we found this cute laptop case, which makes it easier for her to transport it. And by finding a case she really likes, it makes the responsibility of the laptop a little easier.
Compact umbrella
Now that my daughter has to walk to the bus stop, a compact umbrella is useful. While I can drive her to the bus stop, there are times that I am not home or able to pick her up from the bus stop in the rain. Nothing is worse than a long day at school followed by walking home in pouring rain, so my daughter’s compact umbrella has really come in handy. She keeps it in the side pocket of her bag and has used it many times to avoid being drenched on the way home.
Water Bottle
A water bottle is useful for keeping hydrated, and also encourages drinking water. Plus, it is a great way to be eco-friendly and teach kids to keep track of their belongings. We always label our water bottles, and the kids use the water bottle filling stations at school. There are plenty of options, from a Hydroflask water bottle to other options.
Portable charger
If your teen has long days at school, a portable charger might come in handy. This can be particularly useful if they do sports or other afterschool activities where their phone battery may run low.
This is right up my alley! Our oldest is 10, so soon he’ll be attending middle school. I’ll bookmark this for when the time comes!
My daughter has a few years left until middle school. She is excited to be able to change classes.
There were so many locker accessories I wish I had splurged on in school. They would have been so helpful for organization. As for the laptop cases…It BLOWS MY MIND that this is a necessity lol. I remember when they were considered luxury items, but these days kids simply have to have them. They are almost as necessary as a bookbag. What a wild world we live in these days, eh?
It is absolutely crazy what students need for school anymore. We were discussing this the other day. Progress comes with a price. You have to be prepared to keep up with the changing world. Schooling is included.
We really found locker shelves to be handy. My daughter really struggled with organization.
I find it amazing that there are middle schools that require their kiddos – and provide them – with laptops! I know ours does (they start at 3rd or 4th grade with them). I may need to try some shelves – because my son is horrible with organization
I taught middle school, and it’s such a fun stage. Honestly! I loved seeing how much the kids grow in just a few years. Finding products that show their personality is awesome.
Our school provides the kids with laptop too, but honestly, I never thought of getting our son a case for his laptop. LOL. Thank you for the idea.
This couldn’t be more perfectly timed! My oldest is headed to middle school next year and is already starting to stress about it. She’s staying positive by thinking of locker decorations, lol.
Great tips for new middle schoolers! My kids are still very little. This will be useful for the future.
The locker shelves were a big help for my daughter. Definitely needed help being organizaed.
When my stepdaughter was in middle school, she did some shelving in here locker. I sure wish I love known about the unbrella it would been perfect for her to use.
These are all such great suggestions! My elementary school kids have a terrible time keeping desks tidy right now, so yes they will need plenty of organizational help for their lockers!