Your Must Have Homeschool Supplies For Back To School

Are you a busy, working homeschool mom trying to find homeschool supplies that seamlessly fit into your hectic schedule? If so, you’ll love this tried and tested homeschool supplies list I’ve gathered based on my own experience as a working mom and from members inside my community.

You understand the challenges you face, and that’s why you need the right tools, especially when it comes to your homeschool supplies.

As a working mom who homeschools, you require tools that make your life easier, saving you time, money, and ensuring a smoother journey.

However, before I share that list with you, I wanted to tell you to be sure to grab my Back to Homeschool Checklist!

This checklist will help you stay organized while you get ready for back to homeschool.

Okay! Now let’s get to the fun part, homeschool supplies!!!

Must Have Homeschool Supplies For Working Moms

From my personal experience, when I switched from a stay-at-home mom to a working mom, having the right homeschool supplies will help you reach your goal is a huge bonus. The basic supplies you always get, such as pencils, pens, paper, etc., are certainly still needed.

However, there are a few things I would definitely recommend to parents that are homeschooling and working outside the home.

These homeschool supplies are a way to ensure my children could continue to find a flexible, solid, and tailored education at home even if I wasn’t there to watch every step.

Homeschool Supply List:

To help you manage your career and homeschool, I’ve created a personal homeschool supply list for you. Grab a piece of paper or open an app and take note of anything you need to add to your homeschool supply stash!

1. A Printer:

You will need a printer even if you use online homeschool programs and curriculum. I use mine more than ever now that I am away at work.  

For our homeschool, I print everything out for the week/month. I needed a printer that was fast and cost-effective.

We use a Brother Printer we got ages ago. It is a laser printer, and the cartridges don’t cost an arm and a leg, in fact, the ink usually lasts all year! 

This year I invested in an Epson Eco tank after asking other working moms what color printer wouldn’t break the bank. I love this thing! Both are shown below.

Disclosure: I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Epson EcoTank ET-3830 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan, Copy, Auto 2-Sided Printing and Ethernet – The Perfect Printer Productive Families,WhiteBrother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex Printing

 

Did you know you can save money by purchasing your ink online? Companies like TomatoInk will ship it right to your door, which is super handy for the busy mom! FREE SHIPPING on order over $50 at TomatoInk.com

Recently, I started creating printable tools to help working moms manage their time better and create self-care habits.

In order to make them both useful and pretty I needed a color printer. Bonus: I can now print off my kiddos CTCMath awards off in COLOR!!

While I do not feel a color printer is necessary, it sure makes those printable worksheets for kids and tools for moms more appealing!

2. Notebook Pages Membership:

Speaking of printers, I have discovered this site for amazing notebooking pages that cover all topics. I use them to bring our lessons to life.

You can find Art Study, Copywork, Character Study, Famous Men & Women, Geography (state/country studies, continental maps), History of the Ancient World, Medieval, Renaissance, Reformation, and Modern Times, Music Study, Nature Study, Science, Timelines, and more! As a working mom, it is great to print and go. 

3. Backpacks:

Yes, I get a lot of flack from public school moms who don’t understand why I need backpacks for my children.

As a mom working outside the home, backpacks have become a must-have item and a lifesaver. Everything they need for a day of bookwork while I am at work goes into the bag.

And I use a laptop backpack for when I need to work on the go. I prefer a backpack or a cross-body bag. I like to have my hands free, it’s a mom thing!

VASCHY Kids Backpack for Boys, Cute Lightweight Water Resistant Preschool Backpack for Boys and Girls Kindergarten Bookbag DinosaurKids Backpack for Girls Preschool Elementary Kindergarten Mermaid School Bag 15.6″ Multifunctional Cute Large CapacityLenovo Laptop Backpack B210, 15.6-Inch Laptop/Tablet, Durable, Water-Repellent, Lightweight, Clean Design, Sleek for Travel, Business Casual or College, GX40Q17225, Black Casual Backpack- BlackKROSER Travel Laptop Backpack 17 Inch Large Computer Backpack Water-Repellent Daypack with USB Charging Port & Headphone Interface RFID Pockets for Work/Business/College/Men/Women Dusty Pink(Quilted)

 

A backpack will hold snacks, homeschool books, and digital tools such as laptops, tablets, and earbuds. Backpacks are one of the best ways to create quiet boxes for your kids on the go.

If you haven’t discovered the power of quiet boxes, click here to learn more.

I recommend any bag that is well made with lots of pockets to hold your homeschool supplies.

4. Tablets: 

This item is a must-have for working outside the home mom because you can do so much learning online. All you need is a tablet with a wifi connection that allows you to take the “School” with you wherever you go!

A few programs we use it for are:

1. Easy Peasy Homeschool -This program is free. Read how we use it here.
2. Schoolhouseteachers.com -This program is a monthly subscription. Read our review here.  Which programs we are using for Grade 8 &  Grade 9.
3. Khan Academy– This program is free. Most people think of math, however, Khan Academy covers arts, computers, science, and more. Worth checking out.
4. Time4Learning-This program is a monthly subscription as well. It can also be used as an after-school program, summer school program, or skills-building program.
5. Literary Adventures for Kids – These online bookclubs are available for all ages. Dive deep and have fun with literature!

They can also read books online, use learning apps, do bookworm, and watch history videos right on the go. This was a huge plus for this working mom.

We started with an Acer Tablet because tablets can be pricey, and I wanted to make sure they were worth the investment.

This was a great learning tablet and allowed us to see how beneficial a tablet would really be.  

2021 Apple iPad Mini 6 (8.3 inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 64GB) Purple (Renewed)Tablet 10 Inch 128GB ROM +512GB Android Tablet 2.4G/5G WiFi Tablet Computer, 1920 * 1200 IPS Google Certificated Tablets, 8 Core, 13MP Camera, GPS, Gray (Include a Case)Cheerjoy Kids Tablet 7 inch,Android 12 Tablet for Kids,32GB ROM 128GB Expand,Parental Control,Kids Software Pre-Installed, Dual Camera,Android Learning Tablet with Proof Case for Toddlers (Blue)Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet, ages 3-7. Top-selling 7

 

Turns out they are now a need in our homeschool, and I wonder how we did without them.  Therefore we invested in IPad Mini. (and I insist we protect this investment with tablet cases. I can not tell you the times our tablets have been saved because they have a good case! #clumsykids!)

5. The Well Trained Mind

I LOVE this book!  I always recommend and wouldn’t want to homeschool without. I love this book because it helps me decide what curriculum to use, gives me ideas of how to reach my child, for encouragement and suggestions.

The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home

 

I love the schedules it outlines in the back, book lists, and more! I use it each year, referring again and again.

6. Library Card:

The library is a (Free!) amazing resource for your homeschool and a must for my homeschool supply list!

It is home to more than books. The library now includes many events, groups, and training.

A few events might be:

• Preschool Storytime
• Legos build and create
• ABC’s for Baby (0-18 months)
• Knitting and Crochet group
• Tween Scene (craft and create)
• Young Readers Club (A teen favorite) 
• Toddle Time
• Book Club
• STEAM KIDS

A few classes included for all ages are:

• How to use a computer
• How to use a word program
• Introduction to Email
• How to do a Job Search

Your library may also include:

• Free wifi
• Movies
• Audiobooks
• Interlibrary loans
• game rental both board, card, and gaming stations

Don’t forget to check and see what your library has available.

7. Homeschool Planners for Mom

Planners are the one thing that keeps me organized and makes sure I get what needs to be done, done, and on time!

What is the perfect planner? The one that works for you! AND the one you’ll use.

As a working mom, you have a TON of things to keep track of. I recommend creating a simple schedule.

Planners For Working Moms:

I got tired of testing planners and ended up creating my own printable and customizable planner for working moms. While I think it’s pretty much the best printable planner out there, I want to share several other resources for you to check out:

• Discover The Homeschool Planner You Need: 6 To Choose From
• 12 Best Planners For Working Moms: Find The Perfect Paper Planner For You
• 10 Awesome Online Time Management Tools That Working Moms LOVE
• 18 Awesome 2021 Paper Planners For The Working Homeschool Mom

8. Planners For Kids:

One tool that works amazingly to teach kids independent learning is having their own planner.

This was vital in teaching my kids how to manage their own time, and if you have teens, this is needed for the older levels. As your kids get older, you move from a “teaching” role to a support role.

Plus, planners allow kids to feel in control, which they love!

Here are a few planners for kids we’ve used over the years and loved:

• Homeschool Planet: You can print off their plans or use it online.
• Flexible Homeschool Planner: Simple, easy to use, and perfect for homeschooling.
• Happy Planner For Students: This is the planner we are trying this year. I recommend the coil and disk so you can change things up as needed.

And these dated planners for kids are so pretty!

Student Planner 2023-2024 – School Planner with Stickers, July 2023- June 2024, 9Ymumuda 2023-2024 Planner, Weekly Monthly Academic Planner 2023-2024, 12-Month School Planner from JUL.2023 to JUN.2024, 8.4Student Planner 2023-2024 – Academic Year Weekly & Monthly School Planner, 11’’ × 9’’, Weekly Lesson Planner with 12 Monthly Tabs, Twin-Wire Binding, Stickers, Perfect Organizer

 

9. Planners For High School:

One of the most important things I did this past year was to get my kids to start planning their own time.

Learning to set goals and manage their time wisely will be skills they will continue to use for life… I hope!

To get my daughter started, we set weekly planning dates. We meet at the kitchen table each Sunday night with our planners and planning supplies and treats!

Food is a great motivator for teens 🙂

Last year we used the Sarah’s Scribbles planner, and it was one of our favorites. It is not designed for kids, so flip through it first if you can.

Sarah’s Scribbles 16-Month 2022-2023 Weekly/Monthly Planner Calendar: Get It Together!Sarah’s Scribbles Undated Weekly Desk Pad CalendarSarah’s Scribbles 16-Month 2023-2024 Weekly/Monthly Planner Calendar: Get It Together!

 

I should say young kids, my teen and I thought it was fun!

10. Homeschool Supplies For Organization

Besides getting and using a planner, you need tools to help you be organized.

Color-coding provides easy visual reminders and makes it simple to organize. It’s a GREAT way to help you know at a glance what is what.

I use colors for each section of my life: Fixed, flexible, and self-care. For the kids, they use it for subjects plus chores.

For organizing, I love to use a basket and keep them all in one place on my office desk or shelf.

Here are a few tools currently on my baskets shown below:

• Staedtler Color Pen Set, Set of 36 Assorted Colors (Triplus Fineliner Pens) I have the 36 pen set but they come in smaller packages.
• Artist Loft Fine Pens
• Journal Planner Pens Colored Pens (not shown) fine pens
• Post-it Notes in all colors, sizes, shapes, and fun ideas.
• Duct Tape Colored
• Washi tape colored and patterned

You can get these homeschool supplies at Amazon or your local craft store. I like to pick them up when I see them on sale.

Staedtler 334C42 Triplus Fineliner Stick Porous Point Pen, Extra-Fine Needle Tip, 0.3mm, Assorted Ink, Silver Barrel, 42/SetArtist’s Loft MICHAELS Bright Fineliner Pen SetVanstek 72 Colors Journal Planner Colored Pens, Fineliner Pens for Journaling, Writing Coloring Drawing, Note Taking, Calendar, Planner, Art Office School Gift SuppliesZYNSHE Washi Tape Set, 16 Rolls of 15 mm Wide (7 m Long), Cute Decorative Tape for Scrapbooking, Bullet Journals, Planner SuppliesDuck Brand 241791 Printed Duct Tape Single Roll, MermaidPost-it Super Sticky Notes, 3×3 in, 3 Pads, 2x the Sticking Power, Supernova Neons, Bright Colors, Recyclable (3321-SSMIA)(8 Pack) Lined Sticky Notes Post, 8 Colors Self Sticky Notes Pad Its 4X6 in, Bright Post Stickies Colorful Big Square Sticky Notes for Office, Home, School, Meeting,40 Sheets/pad(24 Pack) Sticky Notes 1.5×2 in, 8 Colors Post Self Sticky Notes Pad Its, Bright Post Stickies Colorful Sticky Notes for Office, Home, School, Meeting, 75 Sheets/pad

 

11. Clipboards

It can be hard to keep up with your kid’s homeschool work if you are a working mom. One quick and easy fix for me was to have a designated spot for my kids to place their homeschool work for me to check.

I use a clipboard and they need to add anything they are stuck on, worksheets I need to check, or anything else in goes in the clipboard.

This keeps everything organized and in one spot.

Clipboards are also great for learning on the go such as writing in the car, waiting room, or whatever your child needs to create! You can pick them up in all sizes at your local dollar store.

6 Pack Plastic Clipboards Colored Transparent Clear Clip Boards with Low Profile Metal Clip Board 12.5 x 9 Inch Letter Size Bulk Class Set Acrylic Clip Boards with Hanging Hook – Holds 100 SheetsClipboard a4 Clip File A4 Binder Storage Nursing Clipboard Plastic Side Opening Box Waterproof PVC Flip Material Document Writing Drawing Pad Clip Organizer File Board Note Office Conference(Purple)Sooez Glitter Clipboard with Storage, Plastic Storage Clipboard with Low Profile Clip, Durable Nursing Clip Board 8.5×11, Cute Clipboard Case with Compartment, Smooth Writing, Letter Size A4 for Women4

 

Or you can invest in clipboards with storage! These are great for learning on the go. Take everything you need in the little storage area.

Homeschool Supplies Recommended By Other Working Moms

When I shared this resource with other moms, I asked what I missed. Below you will find a few of their “must-have” tools that make their homeschooling life easier.

1.  Thermal laminator and laminating sheets.

Recommended to preserve artwork, protect reference sheets, create portable dry-erase boards, over recipes and instructions.

The laminator with the sheets below was the ones most recommended.

Scotch Thermal Laminator, 2 Roller System for a Professional Finish, Use for Home, Office or School, Suitable for use with Photos (TL901X)Scotch Thermal Laminating Pouches Premium Quality, 5 Mil Thick for Extra Protection, 50 Pack Letter Size Laminating Sheets, Our Most Durable Lamination Pouch, 8.9 x 11.4 inches, Clear (TP5854-50)Scotch Thermal Laminator and Pouch Bundle, 2 Roller System, Laminate up to 9

 

2. Online Shopping Apps

With work, homeschooling, and other household and family tasks, who has time for grocery shopping? Or other shopping?

You can save time and money by using online shopping apps. Here is a quick list to check out for your own area:

• Grocery Pick Up
• Amazon Fresh
• Amazon Prime
• Instacart
• Shipt
• Costco (They ship!)
• Walmart Grocery Pick up
• Amazon Subscribe And Save
• VitaCost
• FreshDirect

While not all of these programs may be available in your area, the ones that ARE will save you valuable time and money. Plus, some on the list above let you use loyalty programs such as Rakutan!

Shop online. It’s fast, easy and you can do it whenever, wherever. Most places, like Amazon, will deliver right to your door.

3. Student Homeschool Supplies:

These supplies are the ones working moms have recommended for their kids. Some of these we’ve also used and loved but some are still on our wish list.

• Paper – lined, stock, construction, and printer paper
• Notebooks – we prefer coil bound because they lay flat for writing on
• Pencils – TICONDEROGA Pencils are the best ones and most recommended.
• Crayons – 16 PC package of Crayola
• Colored pencils
• Markers – washable if you have little kids
• Binders – we like 3-ring binders that are about 1-2″
• Scissors
• Globe
• World map – a lot of moms recommend this shower curtain for fun! They say their kids loved it and learned while showering.
• Whiteboard – I actually found a great grey one at Staples. We used it for the daily schedule, teaching, word maps and more!

Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils, 2 HB Soft, Black, 24 CountTiconderoga Wood-Cased Pencils, Unsharpened, 2 HB Soft, Yellow, 12 CountCrayola Classic Color Pack Crayons ea, 16 Count (Pack of 6), 96ct, 96Crayola Washable Markers with Retractable Tips, Clicks, School Supplies, Art Markers, 10 CountSamsill Earth’s Choice, 1-Inch Durable D-Ring View Binder 4 Pack, USDA Certified Biobased, Eco-Friendly, Boho AssortmentAvery Heavy-Duty 3 Ring Binder, 1.5 Inch Slant Rings, Mint View Binder (79271)Avery Economy Showcase View 3 Ring Binder, 2iTapnoom World Map Shower Curtain, Map of The World with National Educational Fabric Shower Curtains Set for Bathroom Boys Girls Kids Map Bath Decor with Hooks 72 X 72 InchNew! Map of The World with Detailed Major Cities. PVC Free, Non-Toxic and Odorless Water Repellent Fabric Shower Curtains – Large Home Decor Wall MapU Brands Contempo Magnetic Dry Erase Board, 8.5 x 11 Inches, White Frame – 251U00-04Dry Erase White Board, 16inX12in Large Magnetic Desktop Whiteboard with Stand, 10 Markers, 4 Magnets, 1 Eraser, Portable Double-Sided White Board Easel for Kids Memo to Do List Desk SchoolWorld Globe with Stand, 13

 

Back To Homeschool Help!

When heading back to homeschool after a break, it can feel overwhelming. Here are some resources to help you stay organized:

• How To Get Ready For Back To Homeschool
• With back to homeschool season here, don’t forget to take care of your health. Learn how to practice self-care here.
• Best Back To Homeschool Organization

Must Have Homeschool Supplies Are The Tools That Make Life Easier!

Having the right tools for the job, along with homeschool essentials, always makes life easier.

This was my list of homeschool supplies I use as a working mom. I hope you found some inspiration here, however, if you were going to add to the list, what would it be? Let me know below!

Don’t forget to get your back to homeschool checklist!

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