Help a teacher start the school year with a Back to School Emergency Kit and printable chalkboard tags.
Back to School Teacher Essentials
With only two weeks left of summer, the end of vacation is looming. The kids aren’t quite ready to trade late nights by the pool and relaxed days for classroom routines, but preparations can make the transition easier. During a final family trip to Southern California—enjoying cooler weather, the beach, and a bit of shopping—I finished most of our back-to-school shopping and assembled a thoughtful gift for teachers: a Back to School Emergency Kit with a printable chalkboard tag that reads, “it takes a big heart to help shape little minds.”
The goal was a practical, useful kit that covers both classroom needs and small personal comforts. Whether it’s the first week jitters or the daily surprises that come with teaching, these items help teachers feel supported.
Back to School Survival Kit
– Planner
– Sharpie markers
– Scissors
– Grading pencils
– Giant paper clips
– Post-It note pads
– Hand sanitizer
– Hand lotion
– Aleve (or other pain reliever)
– Basic first aid kit
– Lint roller
– Tide pen or stain remover stick
– Wet Ones or antibacterial wipes
– Mints
– Chocolate
>> Download printable chalkboard tag here <<
Many of the items came from craft and office stores like Michaels. I loved finding a rustic chalkboard crate that serves as both a stylish holder and a practical gift container. I picked up a few in different finishes—stained wood and white—because they felt versatile for other projects. The burlap flower clips were a charming touch and sparked ideas for fall and holiday crafts.
Putting together a kit like this is simple and personal: choose a mix of supplies the teacher can use daily and a few indulgent extras. The result is a considerate, ready-to-go gift that shows appreciation without being elaborate.
Thanks for stopping by!
