Back-to-school season is here, and we’re making it easier than ever to get ready. Whether your child is starting preschool or heading into middle school, this grade-by-grade school supplies checklist covers everything they actually need — with a focus on functional, high-quality gear and stylish picks they’ll be excited to use.

From personalized backpacks and lunch boxes to daily essentials like pencils and notebooks, these lists are designed to help you shop smarter.

Preschool

Preschoolers are learning routines, independence, and how to express themselves — and the right school supplies help them thrive.

Preschool School Supply Checklist:

• Personalized Backpack - lightweight, soft straps, easy to carry
• Insulated Lunch Box - keeps snacks fresh and organized
• Water Bottle (Hydro Flask 12 oz) - fits in backpack
• Nap mat or blanket (if the school offers rest time)
• Pencil Bag - ideal for crayons and washable markers
• Belt Bag - for special treasures and comfort items
• Crayons and Washable Markers
• Child-safe scissors
• Glue stick
• Large erasers
• Hand wipes
• Pack of tissues 
• Velcro shoes (if your child can’t tie laces yet)
• Personalized Patches - for labeling bags and adding personality
• First day of school outfit
• Ball Cap - sun protection and fun style
• Extra change of clothes (labeled, in a resealable bag)  

Grade School 

Elementary school kids are learning to manage supplies, keep organized, and show off their growing independence. This list covers the essentials while keeping things simple and stylish.

Grade School Supply Checklist:

• Personalized Backpack - roomy, durable, and just the right size
• Insulated Lunch Box - perfect for hot or cold lunches
• Water Bottle (Hydro Flask 18 oz) - leak-proof and classroom-friendly
• Pencil Bag - fits pencils, markers, and scissors neatly
• Belt Bag - great for after-school activities or field trips
• Mechanical pencils
• Highlighters and Markers
• Scissors
• Pencil sharpener with container
• Ruler with inches and centimeters
• Glue stick
• Erasers
• Wide-ruled notebooks
• Folders or small binders
• Index cards - useful for studying, especially in 3rd–5th grade
• Hand wipes or sanitizer
• Basic calculator
• Headphones or earbuds
• Back to school outfit
• Ball Cap - for sunny recess days and a confident first-day look
• Personalized Patches - customize bags and hats
  

Middle School

Middle schoolers are ready for more independence, structure, and personal expression. These supplies support their academic needs while letting them showcase their individual style.

Middle School Supply Checklist:

• Personalized Backpack - sleek, durable, and designed for heavier loads
• Insulated Lunch Box - great for keeping meals fresh throughout the day
• Water Bottle (Hydro Flask 24 oz) - high-capacity and built to last
• Combination lock - almost always required for lockers
• Pencil Bag
• Pens
• Belt Bag - doubles as a mini crossbody for everyday essentials
• Mechanical pencils
• Highlighters and Washable markers
• Erasers
• Graph paper
• Scissors
• Post-it notes or page tabs
• College-ruled notebooks
• Heavy-duty folders or binders
• Basic calculator or Scientific calculator
• Planner or assignment notebook
• Hand sanitizer or wipes
• Personalized Patches - add style and make bags easy to ID
• Back to school outfit - let them pick it, with confidence
• Ball Cap - perfect for casual, sporty looks
  

You don’t need an overwhelming list of supplies — just the essentials that make sense for their grade and stage. With this school supply checklist by grade, you can feel confident you’re sending them off with everything they need (and nothing they don’t).

And when it comes to quality gear? Parker Kids personalized backpacks, lunch boxes, belt bags, and patches are loved by kids and trusted by parents. Durable, stylish, and built to last all year long.