Complete Back-to-School Shopping List for Kindergarten

Some links in this article are affiliate links — COSMIQ may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never affects which products we recommend. How this works.

Starting kindergarten is a big transition for kids and families. This product-focused list highlights reliable, widely available items teachers commonly request and parents find helpful. For each pick I explain who it suits best and why — use this as a practical guide when you check your school’s supply list.

1. Crayola Crayons, 24-Count

Check price on Amazon: Crayola Crayons, 24-Count →

Best for: nearly every kindergartener. These classic wax crayons are easy for small hands to hold, come in the standard color set teachers expect, and are sturdy enough to withstand heavy coloring. A 24-count box gives a useful variety without overwhelming the classroom.

2. Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Markers

Check price on Amazon: Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Markers →

Best for: kids who like bold color and parents who want easy cleanup. These washable markers make bright drawings and are formulated to wash out of most fabrics and off skin, which lowers stress over accidental marks on clothes or tables.

3. Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks

Check price on Amazon: Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks →

Best for: craft-heavy classrooms and children who are still mastering application control. The disappearing purple formula shows kids where they’ve applied glue, then dries clear — helpful for teaching even coverage and reducing overuse.

4. Fiskars Kids Scissors, 5-Inch Blunt Tip

Check price on Amazon: Fiskars Kids Scissors, 5-Inch Blunt Tip →

Best for: beginning scissor users who need safety without sacrificing cutting performance. Fiskars blunt-tip scissors are sized for small hands, have a spring-action option in some lines, and are durable enough to handle paper, construction paper, and light craft projects.

5. Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpack

Check price on Amazon: Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpack →

Best for: younger children who benefit from a lightweight, child-sized pack with simple organization. Skip Hop’s Zoo line includes padded straps sized for small shoulders, easy-to-open zippers, and playful designs that help kids identify their bag at school.

6. Thermos Funtainer 12-Ounce Bottle

Check price on Amazon: Thermos Funtainer 12-Ounce Bottle →

Best for: active kids who need a spill-resistant, insulated water bottle. The Thermos Funtainer balances size and insulation — it keeps drinks cool for school hours, has kid-friendly spouts, and usually fits most backpack pockets, making daily hydration easier.

7. Bentgo Kids Lunch Box

Check price on Amazon: Bentgo Kids Lunch Box →

Best for: children who benefit from compartmentalized lunches. The Bentgo Kids lunch box separates foods to prevent sogginess and helps parents pack balanced snacks and meals. Its simple latch and durable exterior make it classroom-ready.

8. Sterilite Pencil Box (Small Plastic Supply Box)

Check price on Amazon: Sterilite Pencil Box (Small Plastic Supply Box) →

Best for: classrooms that ask for a personal supply box. A clear, lidded Sterilite pencil box keeps crayons, glue sticks, scissors, and markers in one place at the student’s desk. It’s an inexpensive way to help kids learn responsibility for their materials.

Practical buying advice

When you shop for kindergarten supplies, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Check the school list first. Some classrooms request specific brands, quantities, or items like nap mats or extra clothes.
• Label everything. Put names on backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles, and clothing — many items look alike in a classroom.
• Prioritize durability and ease of use. Child-sized straps, easy-open zippers, washable materials, and safety tips (like blunt scissors) make daily school routines smoother.
• Buy washable versions when possible. Washable markers, paints, and clothing protectors reduce stress from spills and stains.
• Ask about community supplies. Some teachers maintain classroom bins for shared items; if so, you may not need multiples of everything.
• Keep extras at home. Store a backup glue stick, crayons, and markers for homework or emergency replacements.

With a few well-chosen items you can cover most kindergarten needs: sturdy art supplies, safe scissors and glue, a child-sized backpack, and reliable food/drink containers. Pair the products above with your school’s specific requests, label everything, and you’ll set your child up for a smoother start to the school year.