The Ultimate Teacher’s Classroom Essentials For Success
Back to school is a stressful time there’s no doubt about that. When I think about a classroom supplies list for teachers, I think about all the things I wish I had got.
Specifically, I created this teacher must have items from Amazon, because 1- who doesn’t love receiving a package, and 2- no need to leave your couch to get ready for a new school year. This list is doubly essential if you are a first year teacher. You might feel overwhelmed with “what to buy” for your first classroom.
Along with physical items, you need to prepare mentally for the load that comes with being a teacher. One way to help prepare for the year is with deciding what are your routines and procedures going to be? I created this check list of routines and procedures to help you get started.
I polled my teacher audience and I asked what were some must-haves for their classroom and I compiled a list of some popular and some unusual but very necessary essentials for your classroom. Let’s dive into it (in no particular order).
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The best classroom essentials supplies list for teachers:
These doorbell attention grabbers have been popular among educators. Especially if you teach elementary. Honestly, who doesn’t stop in their tracks when they hear a doorbell (and hope it’s Amazon if you’re home).
Having a personal laminator comes in handy, when there’s only a few sheets you want to laminate but don’t want to go down the hall and wait for the laminator. You’ll use this way more than you think. I student bought me one over 5 years ago and I still use it…
Just when you thought having a personal laminator was a great idea, in walks the personal paper cutter. Think about how often you cut things out. Now, think about how more efficient you could be with a personal paper cutter at the tips of your fingers.
When a teacher suggested a tool kit, at first I was like… “now what do I need a tool kit for”- and honestly, it makes sense. I can’t tell you how exactly, but there will be times during the school year that you will need a tool kit and possibly a power drill. It’s wild being a teacher lol.
I mean this is pretty self explanatory. I would encourage you to have a pencil procedure. Whether it’s ONE student sharpens pencils for the week, or you as the teacher has a place for sharpened pencils. Students always seem to find a way to break the pencil sharpener when you’re not looking or have a substitute.
Initially, I thought “why would I need a box cutter. This could be potentially dangerous”- think about how many boxes you need to open and break down at school. You’re going to need a box cutter for various reasons including cutting along your bulletin board.
One word. Posters.
Just keep them in your desk. Thank me later. This is the most classroom essentials you’ll need.
Dry erase boards are a fun and easy way to get students engaged in an activity. Whether you teach math or phonics whiteboards can be a great addition to your lesson.
Print your black and white activity on bright card stock to add a little razzle dazzle.
A lint brush might seem like an odd classroom must have, but have you ever done a project with glitter?
I first saw these crayon boxes when I was subbing in a classroom and thought it was such a genius item. Each student had their own box with their names on it. It helped preserve those precious crayons after the original box have been torn and discarded.
A 3 pocket apron is by far the favorite thing I have used as an educator. In my apron I keep my phone, pens, expo markers, chapstick, candy, keys, and it’s absolutely the greatest way to confiscate things and keep it pushing!! 10/10 highly recommend. Plus it also helps keep your clothes “clean”.
As someone who struggled with Fibroids during my teaching career, having tampons available would help me out drastically. It’s a great addition to a general self-care kit.
This isn’t necessarily a “must have”, but it is definitely a plus. There are so many studies about the benefits of diffusers. Add some lavender to it and mellow out that class after recess!!
These timers are great for centers, independent work, and so many other ways to use them!
If you have ever been in a classroom that just couldn’t seem to find the heat, a heating pad come come in handy. Also, wonderful for those days you should have taken off, but decided to suffer through and come to school anyways.
I would go out on a limb and say that Ticonderoga pre-sharpened pencils are a teachers best friend. They now come in pastel colors. Yes, please!
Because yes!
This is the back up pencil sharpener.
I first saw this on @kacibollskids as a classroom management reward. Students get to dance for 30 seconds when they don’t “blurt”.
Speaking of bribery.
With that being said, of course anything from Teacher Noire is an absolute must have classroom essential!
There are some honorable mentions:
sewing kit, hair ties, lotion, duct tape, desk lamps, clear bins, sharpies, mini fridge, and board games.
Yet, the most important thing you need in your classroom is a smile and a passion for education.
Let me know if this blog post was helpful. You might also like the following: