The first year of school is a big step — not only for children, but also for their parents. It seems like you need everything at once: a backpack, notebooks, clothes, pens, lunchboxes, and maybe even a bit of good luck. And of course, everything has to be high-quality, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
This article will guide you through how to prepare your child for school without the panic — a clear, realistic checklist to help you stay calm and focused.
Why Early Preparation Matters
Getting ready for school isn’t just about shopping. It’s part of your child’s emotional preparation for a new chapter in life. If the process is calm, well-organized, and joyful — your child will feel more confident and supported.
1. Stationery: Quality Over Quantity
The first and most obvious item is stationery. Your child will use it every day, so it’s worth paying attention to:
- Ergonomics (especially for pens and pencils),
- Safety (non-toxic, child-friendly materials),
- Visual appeal — but not overly distracting.
What every first grader needs:
- 2–3 graphite pencils (HB or B),
- 2 blue pens (one as backup),
- A set of colored pencils or markers (up to 12 colors),
- An eraser (soft, unscented),
- A sharpener with a container,
- A 20 cm ruler.
Add several notebooks in wide-ruled and grid-lined formats — kids love them more when they feature fun characters or colorful covers.
Save time by shopping all your back-to-school essentials online. Check out the stationery collection on Demsky.com.ua, where you’ll find everything from pens and pencil cases to creative sets and learning tools.
2. The Right Backpack: Light, Practical, Comfortable
A backpack is one of the most important items in your child’s daily routine. It should be:
- Lightweight (no more than 1 kg empty),
- Ergonomic, with a padded orthopedic back,
- Sturdy zippers and strong seams,
- Interior compartments to stay organized,
- Reflective elements for visibility and safety.
Don’t forget to include a lunchbox, water bottle, and a drawstring bag for indoor shoes or sports gear.
3. Clothing and Shoes: Comfort is Key
You don’t need an entire wardrobe right away. Here’s the minimum:
- Two sets of school uniforms (one as backup),
- A tracksuit and athletic shoes,
- Indoor shoes (Velcro is best for ease),
- Seasonal outerwear (jacket, hat, etc.).
Choose clothing that’s easy to wash, doesn’t wrinkle too much, and allows your child to move freely — because first graders are full of energy.
4. Creativity Supplies: For More Than Just Fun
First grade is not only about letters and numbers. It’s also about creating, crafting, and discovering.
Creative must-haves:
- A drawing pad or sketchbook,
- Watercolor paints,
- 2–3 paintbrushes (different sizes),
- Modeling clay and mat,
- Colored paper and cardboard,
- Child-safe scissors (rounded tips),
- Glue stick.
Also pack some wipes or a towel for cleanup after arts & crafts.
5. Emotional Preparation: The Invisible Yet Crucial Part
Beyond the shopping list, emotional support matters most:
- Talk to your child about school in a positive light,
- Answer their questions patiently (even “Do I haveto go?”),
- Play “pretend school” at home to build familiarity,
- Encourage and support them, even if they lose a pen on day one — it’s all part of learning.
Bonus: Smart Extras
Here are a few extra tips to make school days smoother:
- Add a name tag with emergency contact info to the backpack.
- Use stickers or name labels to mark notebooks and items.
- A compact hygiene kit (hand sanitizer, tissues, plasters).
- A waterproof bag for shoes or gym clothes.
Where to Get Everything in One Place?
No need to drive from store to store. You can find everything in one place — online.
Visit Demsky.com.ua for a curated selection of quality school supplies: stationery, backpacks, lunch sets, creativity kits, and more — all delivered to your door.
Final Thoughts
Preparing a first grader for school doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, the process can become a fun bonding experience. Let your child pick their notebooks. Try on the backpack together. Turn this moment into an adventure.
Most importantly — show your child that school is exciting, and that you’re by their side every step of the way.
And for everything else, trust Demsky.com.ua — your reliable partner for back-to-school shopping.