It’s that time of the summer when major retailers’ shelves of pool, patio, and beach supplies begin to be replaced with school supplies. Shopping for fresh school supplies is a gentle reminder that the summer days are passing quickly and will soon yield to the beginning of the next school year. 

New pencils, colorful folders, and a fresh pack of markers are on the standard list of must-haves, but what if your back-to-school shopping list could go beyond the basics—and make school days smoother, calmer, and a bit more organized?

At Best in Class Education Center, we’ve assembled a list of smart, functional supplies that can do just that! From helping kids stay on top of assignments to supporting independence, these eight non-standard school supplies might be precisely what your child didn’t know they needed.

1. Whiteboard Clipboards

Half whiteboard, half clipboard—a whiteboard clipboard is all genius. These sturdy boards let kids work out math problems, jot down spelling words, or plan their to-do list, all on a reusable surface. Using a whiteboard and colorful dry-erase markers somehow makes homework and skill practice more enjoyable. They’re also great to tote around during after-school programs or to have while waiting in the car between activities.

2. Erasable Pens and Mechanical Pencils

Kids love erasable pens and mechanical pencils for a reason. Erasable pens (in teacher-approved ink colors) help young writers build confidence without worrying about mistakes, while mechanical pencils keep the lines crisp and eliminate the constant need to divert focus to locate a pencil sharpener. Both of these writing tools encourage neatness, responsibility, and a stress-free way to practice spelling or handwriting.

3. Noise-Reducing Earbuds

For busy homes, homework hubs, or even study time at the library, a simple pair of noise-reducing earbuds can be a lifesaver. Blocking out distractions helps kids focus, reduces sensory overload, and can make reading or working through assignments feel calmer.

4. Color-Coded Binders and Folders

While you might be tempted to grab any folders and binders you can quickly get your hands on to fulfill the school supplies list, organization becomes easier (and more enjoyable) when everything has a color system. Using one color per subject helps kids quickly identify what they need and makes it simpler to return papers to the correct place. Color-coded organization can be a big stress-buster, especially for students with multiple classes.

5. Reusable Water Bottles with Time Markers

We know that when kids play hard, they need to mind their hydration to avoid cramping or headaches; however, hydration is also directly tied to focus and energy. Choose a reusable water bottle with time-of-day markers to remind kids to sip throughout the school day. It’s an eco-friendly upgrade that also supports a healthy habit.

6. Magnetic or Sticker-Based Planners

Traditional planners are great, but a magnetic dry-erase calendar on the fridge or fun planner stickers can be even more motivating. Kids enjoy customizing their schedules and love the visual reminders of upcoming events, tests, or extracurricular activities.

7. A Label Maker

Water bottles, lunch boxes, crayon boxes—they all seem to vanish into the lost-and-found vortex. Personalized stick-on or iron-on labels help kids keep track of their belongings and develop a sense of responsibility for their possessions. (They’re also great for labeling supplies used during after-school enrichment classes and shelves for items at home kids need to organize!)

8. Flexible Pencil Pouches

Instead of the rigid, plastic kind, try a flexible zippered pouch with hooks or clips that attach to a backpack or a three-ring binder. They hold more supplies, take up less space, and are less likely to break. Bonus: kids can keep their writing tools close at hand wherever they go.

These little extras can make a big difference.

The right school supplies do more than look cute on a backpack. Thoughtful supplies can help your child stay organized, feel confident about learning, build independence, and manage their routines.

Whether your family is preparing for classroom learning, after-school activities, or enrichment programs like those offered at Best in Class Education Center, these unique supplies can help your child start the year strong and stay on track.

If you’d like to explore how Best in Class can also make this upcoming school year easier,  connect with your local Best in Class Education Center—our programs are here to support your student’s confidence every step of the way.