Back to School: 5 Backpack Essentials

Backpacks may well be a fashion statement to kids, but as parents we know that it’s what’s inside that counts.

The first day of school is generally a meet-and-greet, where teachers provide introductions, discuss course outlines and generally set expectations. Since teachers often have specific school supply requirements, many parents choose to forego some school purchases until receiving specific instructions.

But you can prepare ahead if you want. Here are five essential items kids need in their backpacks for the first day:

1. A composition notebook. Priced at 40 cents each at Walmart in Riverdale (through Monday), it’s an incredibly good price for this school essential. The hardcover is sturdy enough to withstand being tossed around between locker and backpack. 
2. A notebook is only half the battle.  Kids will also need a writing implement of some sort. Pencils are often recommended for the younger students, while older kids can often use pens. Target in Riverdale has a $4 sale this week. Take your pick from 3-count Paper Mate retractable pencils or 5-count Paper Mate Flair pens. 
3. A pack of highlighters is essential. Ideally, kids will highlight very important information on worksheets and other hand-outs. But, as we all remember from our own student days, highlighters provide that extra balance of color that doodles often cry out for. You can pick up a 6-pack from the Hype brand for just $1 at Staples through Sept. 10.
4. A place to hold those hand-outs. A binder with dividers provides an easy way to differentiate between subjects on the first day. No need to make a big investment in a fancy filing system, since the teacher may send you flying off in another direction, based on their preference. You can pick up a 1” binder for just $1.49 from Pathmark in Kinnelon through Sept. 8. 
5. Post-Its are a must. Thumbing through the pages to get to the right chapter can be a pain. It’s so much easier to keep your place with a Post-It note, plus you can flag other important pages. Stop & Shop in Butler has Post-Its on sale for 25 percent off through Thursday.

We've got plenty more school-related coverage coming your way this week, in addition to an opinion incoming freshman at Noah Eckstein. Here's a look at what's in store:

• Patchs statewide will take a closer look at educational curriculum regarding 9/11 and Tri-boro Patch will share what is being done locally in tri-boro school districts to teach students about the event and the special anniversary.
• We'll have photo galleries of the first day of school at Kinnelon Public Schools (Tuesday) and Butler and Bloomingdale Public Schools (Wednesday).
• Recipe writer Cheri Orlando will bring you a recipe for a special meal to pack your kids for lunch.
• You'll be able to take a closer look at the new anti-bullying legislation in effect in school districts across the state and the direct impact it will have on students in tri-boro schools.