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?
I manage a Title 1 Room and a laminator is a must have for all of the fantastic games and activities that you can find for purchase or for free. The laminator makes the games and activities last and allows for many students to be engaged and enjoy learning! Thank you!
I would love a binding machine. I teach special education and my students are learning to read and use adapted books daily. This would make life sooooo much easier!!
I would really like the laminator to help me make nice worksheets and activities. Thanks!
Things are always needed in teaching. The binder would be very useful for making small books for our students.
Thanks for sharing all of your posts.
I would love to win the laminator! I am a high school FACS teacher and my students run a preschool out of our classroom. The laminator would help us plan activities for our preschool students.
I would love the pencil sharpener- mine is on it’s last legs! Thanks!
Having my own supplies has made my job so much easier!! They’re usually better than what we have at school and I can use it on the fly. These are great ideas for supplies to have on hand. I would love the paper cutter!
I would so love the paper cutter. I teach Life Skills and am forever cutting multiple cut and paste worksheets. Thank you for the opportunity 🙂
I was a teacher too before I had my children and yes you spend a lot! All of these items are so important and helpful! I got a laminator last year and it really was a game changer! I would love the pencil sharpener because I have been through several!
We are still teaching from home. I’d totally use the laminator a ton! Thanks!