As a seasoned pro in the back-to-school shopping game, I’ve got my list of must-have supplies down to a science after 13 years of parenting. You can bet I’ll be picking up lined paper, pencils, index cards, and three-ring binders. We’ll also gather spiral notebooks, glue sticks, prongless folders, disinfectant wipes, tissues, and those beloved flat pink erasers. But beyond the basics, I know there are some essential items that moms like us really need—particularly the last-minute things our kids suddenly remember to ask for at 10 p.m. the night before they’re due. Let’s call these the “sanity-saver supplies.” You won’t find these at the front of Target!
1. Comfort Items: Alcohol or Workout Gear (or Both!)
While I prefer lacing up my running shoes over pouring a glass of wine, whatever helps you navigate through nights filled with homework and reading logs is essential. Stock up on whatever you need to keep your cool! A little red wine can be heart-healthy and might even soothe your nerves when you’re tackling the chaos of school prep. For me, it’s all about getting back into my running routine, so I’ll be on the lookout for new sneakers and maybe some stylish capris. A race entry wouldn’t hurt either!
2. A Fully Finished Science Project
That’s right; I said it. Take a day this summer—when your kids are whining about boredom—and complete an entire science project. You know the one that always sneaks up on you? The tri-fold display board, hypothesis, bar graph, and a well-articulated theory on why plants shouldn’t drink soda. Trust me, if you’ve been through this before, you’re nodding in agreement. Do yourself a favor: tackle all those big projects now, from dioramas to book reports, and save your sanity for the school year.
3. Emergency Cash Stash
Last year, I found myself writing checks for ONE DOLLAR more times than I’d like to admit. This year, I’m preparing for those frantic mornings when my child dramatically announces they need a dollar for insert random school event here. I’m keeping a small stash of cash for those hair-pulling moments. Maybe someday I can just leave a few blank checks with the school’s bookkeeper instead!
4. Costumes for Dress-Up Days
Hit up thrift stores and get ready for the inevitable themed dress-up days in school. Sure, I love that my kids’ teachers encourage creativity, but let’s be honest: it takes more than a week to whip up a convincing costume! I’ve already scored a versatile outfit that covers everything from colonial to presidential themes—double duty is the way to go!
5. Contact Information for ‘Borrower Moms’
If you don’t have a few fellow moms on speed dial, it’s time to change that! These lifesavers can come through when you forget shinguards for soccer practice or need a last-minute costume. Whether it’s borrowing a science project or a math book, these connections can save your sanity. I’m grateful for my “borrower moms” who don’t blink when I text them at the crack of dawn, asking, “Oh no, do you happen to have a insert random item here I can borrow?”
6. This Simple Yet Powerful Sentence
You can’t buy or borrow this, but it’s priceless: “I’m sorry. I can’t help with that.” Practice it, and say it with confidence. You’re not being lazy or indifferent; you’re being realistic. It’s totally okay to pass the baton to the younger moms and take a break from volunteering. Remember, it’s all about maintaining your sanity and enjoying these later years of school without the pressure of doing it all.
For more on navigating parenting and family life, check out this resource on home insemination and for specifics on medical procedures, this site offers great insights.
Summary: As you gear up for another school year, make sure you’re stocked with essential supplies, both for your kids and for your own sanity. From completed science projects to a stash of emergency cash, preparation can make all the difference. And don’t forget to lean on your fellow “borrower moms” when you need a helping hand. Lastly, remember the importance of setting boundaries; it’s okay to say no sometimes!
Keyphrase: School Supplies for Moms
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]