5 Must-Have Teaching Supplies
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Before I became a teacher, I underestimated how much work teaching would be and how much of my own money I would spend on my classroom and students! Teachers put so much time, money, and love into teaching and they all deserve a pay raise! Now that I’m a homeschool mom, I am also putting in so much time and money into teaching my three boys.
Over the years, I’ve used various tools to make teaching easier.
Today I’m sharing my top five teaching supplies. Of course, you could buy lots of other supplies, but these are my must-haves!
Top 5 Teaching Supplies
#1 – Home Laminator
I have used my Scotch Thermal Laminator for over 7 years and it’s still working great! I use it to laminate any printables I want to use with dry-erase markers or other printed items that I want to be more durable, such as printable games. Having this in my home is a game-changer and saves me money! Even my husband used it the other day for work! 😉
The one I purchased in 2013 is no longer available, but the one that is most similar is this one.

#2 – Binding Machine
I know this one might surprise you, but I love my binding machine! I have used this so many times! It’s great for making journals, packets, small booklets, and even my handprint calendar. It is also super easy to use.

#3 – Pencil Sharpener
Investing in a good pencil sharpener is a must! I’ve gone through some pretty cheap pencil sharpeners and it’s so frustrating spending money on something that breaks! This Xacto pencil sharpener is great for home or the classroom!

#4 – Stapler
Getting a good, heavy-duty stapler is so helpful! I love this Swingline one because you can staple a lot of pages at once!

#5 – Paper Cutter
So many printables for early childhood require cutting! I love using this paper cutter to save time. It makes cutting a breeze!

Of course, there are many more supplies I could add to this list. These are just my top 5!
What is a must-have for you?


That binding machine would be a HUGE help! Right now, I have to go into the teacher’s lounge and drag out a 20 pound machine from a low cabinet. This one looks so much lighter. AND, it would be great to have one at home since we still have not gone back to in-person learning since last March.
I would love to win either the paper cutter or the binder.
I agree… a laminator is essential. My husband has even requested things be laminated–for instance when he had a diagram for a car he is restoring… we scanned and laminated it from the manual so he could look at it with greased up hands and not worry about damaging the book!
I have also noticed I’ve done a LOT of cutting lately, but I’m ok with that and with letting my little loves do the cutting and be ok with their imperfections.
But that binding machine!!! I remember using it in an office and it was amazing!! I hadn’t thought of using it for all the flip charts we have… letters, numbers, fun activity books we’ve made… the uses could be endless! The binding machine would be my pick.
Yes to all of this! My husband has used ours, too. It’s so handy to have at home! And yes, the binding machine is equally awesome!
the binding machine would add anew level of fun to my teaching.
Absolutely love all of these items, especially the laminator!!! Who doesn’t love a laminator?! 🙂
That paper cutter❤️
I would love the laminator. My remote learning business needs this. thanks
The Paper Cutter! I don’t have one, and my poor scissors are on it’s last cut. : -(
I would love the pencil sharpener!!!! I have not found one that lasts!
If theses items aren’t a teacher’s best friend I don’t know what would be.
The pencil sharpener would be helpful to me.