10 must-have supplies for back to school 2022-23

Ready to buy your child's back-to-school supplies?
Here are some must-have supplies for the 2022-23 academic year:
1. WEEKLY FRIDGE CALENDAR
Don't miss any after-school programs and sports with a weekly calendar!
2. PLANNER
A planner is a must-have on the school supply list to help students (AND PARENTS!) keep track of all their responsibilities.
CONSUMER TIPS: Tips for smart back-to-school shopping
STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS: Back-to-school resources
3. PENS & PENCILS
Pens and pencils are a staple of school supply lists everywhere! For younger students, don't forget to check their school list for preferred brands.
4. BACKPACK
Your kid can stand out with a stylish backpack.
5. COMPUTERS
Now more than ever, students will need reliable computers to do school work, or attend virtual classes - if necessary. How do you know what type of computer is best for the 2022-23 academic year? Click here for News 12’s guide on how to pick the perfect computer.
6. WATER BOTTLE
Let the kids hydrate in style with a reusable, and environmental friendly, water bottle. Pick something that is easy to use, so it will limit the need of a teacher helping them drink.
Can your elementary school-aged kid open these 5 items? Click here to see what to pack, and NOT to pack for their lunch.
8. BENTO BOX
In Japanese culture, bento boxes are lunches that are carefully put together to create a complete meal. But the portioned compartments make them practical for anyone, especially kids!
8. APPAREL AND UNIFORMS
Kids seem to grow faster during the summer, so they'll need new clothes and school uniforms for the beginning of the year. See New 12’s tips on buying school uniforms and where to find deals here.
9. MASKS
Schools may not require masks for students, teachers and staff this year. But they may become necessary if COVID-19 cases increase. You can buy cloth face coverings everywhere. Search Amazon, Etsy, Staples and Target to find a variety of face coverings. You can also ask if anyone in your community makes them. Here's the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for the use and care of masks.
Is your little one afraid of wearing a mask? These 6 tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics can help
10. SANITIZING WIPES, SPRAY AND HAND SANITIZER
Now more than ever, it’s a good idea to have some germ killers handy, especially if you can’t wash your hands.