The 5 Best Homeschool Supplies

If you are in a hurry and just want to find out the best homeschool supplies, then I’d recommend the HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer as the best one.

Many parents are considering homeschooling nowadays. Many made that big leap from regular school to homeschool. Some, find it more intentional if they’ll homeschool their children, especially during this time. 

Looking for homeschooling supplies can be stressful sometimes, especially when you and your child have only started homeschooling recently. But, with the right guide and checklist, shopping for supplies doesn’t have to be so stressful. As you read through this article, we’ll learn about homeschooling supplies and what they are for. We also have a homeschool supply checklist, be sure to check that one out!

Here are the best Homeschool Supplies we will be reviewing:

• HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer
• Happygrill 15-Drawer Organizer Rolling Storage Cart 
• Scotch Brand TL906 2-Roller 9″ PRO Thermal Laminator
• X-ACTO Adjustable Electric Pencil Sharpener
• Designstyles Spinning Desktop Stationary Organizer

What are Homeschool Supplies?

Homeschool supplies are sets of supplies that both the teacher and the student uses for homeschooling. Items may vary from electronic devices to stationery supplies and storage containers. These supplies help the teacher discuss the day’s lessons and assist the student in enjoying and learning from the activities.

What are Homeschool Supplies For?

Homeschool supplies are items that make homeschooling more fun and engaging for the student and teacher. These items are not only used for homeschooling only, which means you can use them for work and around the house if you need them.

Homeschool Supply Checklist

The Basic Essentials

Items or devices that fall under this category are must-haves for homeschooling:

1. A designated homeschool desk. As much as possible, you would want your child to have a separate desk for homeschooling. A designated desk for homeschool helps them concentrate better.
2. A good printer. Having your colored printer is essential in homeschooling. Besides readily providing paper handouts, you can also save so much time and money from printing them elsewhere.
3. A working laptop. A good quality laptop helps the teacher present the lessons better through multimedia presentations, plus they can conduct the activity on the device right after.
4. Headphones. Headphones help your child focus on the video presentation or lecture, especially with working from home.
5. iPads/Tablets dedicated for ebooks only. Much like laptops, there are also great deals for iPads and tablets. Using tablets instead of physical books saves you so much space that you can store for activities and supplies.

Art Supplies

Your child can use these homeschool supplies for note-taking, doodling, and decorating their activities.

1. Pens and highlighters. When buying pens and highlighters, you should consider what grade your child is in. But that should not discourage you from getting them in a few colors as you can use them for arts and crafts.
2. Paper (graphing paper and construction paper). Construction paper has many uses for decorations and art activities. For graphing paper, try to hold off buying them until your child is in middle school.
3. Notebooks. Notebooks come in various sizes and thicknesses; choose ones that are big enough for your child to be comfortable when writing.
4. School glue and glue sticks. School glue is a staple in the schoolbags of children of all ages. These are used for arts and crafts activities. At the same time, glue sticks offer a mess-free option.
5. Sketchbooks. Choose one that is big enough for your child so that they can draw freely and comfortably.

Organization

These homeschooling supplies help you organize your teaching materials and record activities, quizzes, and exams.

1. Laminating machine/Laminator pouches. A laminating machine and laminator pouches help preserve teaching materials. For a cheaper option, try laminator pouches.
2. Heavy-duty stapler. A heavy-duty stapler will save you the hassle of broken staples, and they won’t hurt your hand trying to staple together a massive stack of papers. Heavy-duty staplers also make organizing the school files a breeze.
3. Electric pencil sharpener. Electric pencil sharpeners lessen the time and effort of sharpening pencils and crayons manually.
4. File folders and ring binders. File folders are traditionally used in organizing lesson plans and activities that have accumulated. At the same time, ring binders allow you to compile a more extensive set of files.
5. Storage shelves, baskets, and bins. It is best to clean out the room you have designated for homeschool first before buying storage units. If it doesn’t fit the budget, you can instead reuse and decorate empty boxes and storage crates.

Learning Supplies

Homeschool supplies items under this category are tools your child can use during homeschooling sessions:

1. Calculator. Calculators come in handy for solving complex mathematical equations in middle school. For children who are in lower grade levels, I would recommend getting them counting beads instead.
2. Basic microscope. These are great for science lessons; they let your child get involved in the subject. Be sure to show how to use it first and provide enough slides for them to use.
3. Science lab supplies (goggles, beakers and test tubes, a scale, and pipettes). There are inexpensive beakers, test tubes, and pipettes in the market but check the reviews first. Science experiments done at home are just as exciting and fun, plus using ordinary household items adds to the wow factor. An important reminder: you and your child’s safety should be a priority, so read each procedure carefully.
4. World map/Globe. The world map and globe make geography lessons a little more interactive. Either of the two is good, but a world globe prompts a child to interact and actively look for the countries.
5. Novels and poetry books. It is best to get your child interested in reading books and literature at an early age to avoid struggling as they grow older.

Craft Supplies for Learning

1. Easy to grip pencils and handwriting workbooks. Easy to grip pencils help your child practice and get used to grabbing a pencil when writing. At the same time, handwriting workbooks are fun and have easy-to-follow activities to help your child get used to the strokes of each letter.
2. Learning scissors and cutting books. Learning scissors have blunt tips and flexible plastic guides on the handles to help your child get used to the scissors’ opening and closing motions. Together with cutting books, they learn how to use scissors safely.
3. Triangular crayons and washable colored marker. Triangular crayons are more accessible to grip than the usual crayons, so these are a perfect way for your toddlers to express their creativity. Also, for mess-free and easy clean-up, washable colored markers got your back.
4. Popsicle sticks, googly eyes, and pom-poms. You can use popsicle sticks, googly eyes, and pom-poms for art projects. You can also search through the internet for templates and instructions on building certain buildings using popsicle sticks. Through these types of projects, your child learns about concentration and adhering to instructions.
5. Dry erase board and markers. This comes in handy when you’re teaching your kid math equations, plus it doubles as a canvas for their artworks.

Fine Motor Tools

Under this category are homeschool supplies items that help your child develop their fine motor skills:

1. Magnetic tiles. These come in assorted colored tiles that snap together magnetically. Magnetic tiles encourage your child to build various objects and shapes.
2. Wooden blocks/pattern puzzle set. Besides playtime, you can use wooden blocks/pattern puzzle sets to teach simple math equations and learn about basic shapes.
3. Water-based paint. Acrylic paints are an example of water-based paints that are safe for children to use.
4. Toxic-free clay (Flour-based, earth-based, and oil-based). Any of the three is safe for your child to use, either air dry or modeling clays.
5. Cutting workbook. Cutting workbooks help develop your child’s concentration and control over using the scissors.

How to Manage Your Homeschool Supplies?

Consider ages and stages

Before starting the new curriculum, try to declutter first and keep away items you and your child no longer need. Clear out the room and check the things you won’t be using for the current curriculum. Starting every year this way helps you sort your priority and get you into a steady flow and rhythm.

Keep it simple

Do not overcomplicate your organizational system. Keep it simple; separate your supplies with your child’s. Place the items that your child will use in a separate bin where they can reach easily. If you want to elaborate, place stickers that correspond to the subject related to the items inside specific containers. You can also apply this to your supplies, and instead of stickers, you can choose a color for each subject.

Build your basics

Get your child involved, and ask them where would be the best place or corner to put their stuff on so that it would be accessible. Or, if the space is limited, dedicate a space for supplies only so that kids can simply grab what they need without having to dig through different units. 

Organize

Organize your supplies, it doesn’t have to look perfect as long as it’s not messy and you can find your stuff easily. Dedicate units or shelves for each subject and your child’s assignments and activities so that they know where to find them.

Keep track of what you have

Keep in mind your limited space and only keep what you will use. Try not to hoard items and supplies you no longer need and still consider using. They just take too much space and would collect dust in the future. An excellent way to do this is to keep a checklist of the items and supplies you will likely use for the current curriculum. 

How to Choose the Best Homeschool Supplies?

What is your child’s current grade level?

Use your child’s curriculum for their current or incoming grade level as a guide. Most of the homeschooling supplies are used for all grade levels; some depend on your child’s age and grade level.

What is your child’s preferred learning style?

Everyone’s learning style is different. Different learning styles have different sets of supplies that help the child during lessons and activities. Some children prefer to read what you are teaching them through books and handouts, then investing in printers and a tablet may be best. If they choose activities that need a lot of movement and physical involvement,

What is your teaching style?

Learning about your teaching style will not only help your child learn better, but it will also be easier for you to plan for lessons and activities. Try to incorporate both your teaching style and your child’s learning style in the activities and delivery of the classes. 

Consider your priorities

Focus on the subjects included in the curriculum you chose; that way, you can prioritize which supplies to buy. If, for this year, the curriculum focuses more on academic subjects, then base your shopping list on that. Looking for activities with procedures and a list of the materials you need is also a great help.

Consider your child’s interests

Make studying fun and engaging by incorporating your child’s interests in lessons and activities. That way, they would find the lessons more enjoyable. For example, if your child shows interest in sports, you can do a history lesson filled with their favorite sports superstars.

Read product reviews

Read product reviews, particularly if you’re looking to buy electronic devices like headphones, laptops, and tablets. Do your research and write down a list of features you’re looking for in the machine. Reading other customers’ experiences using the items gives you a clear idea of how the device will perform. I’d also like to recommend asking other parents who homeschool their children for advice and tips on looking for when buying gadgets.

What is your budget?

Always plan with your budget in mind. You do not always have to spend so much money on the best homeschooling supplies. You only have to know where to look and what best suits your homeschooling curriculum.

Here are the best homeschool supplies that we recommend.

HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer

The HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer allows you to copy and scan documents, apart from the printing itself. This product also has a mobile printing feature that lets you print using your smartphone. All you need to do is download the free app, and you’re set. No need for a network connection because it’s a Wireless Direct.

The HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer is a compact printer with a quiet mode, making this perfect anywhere you put it. Plus, its sleek design allows it to look good in your homeschooling room, even in your home office. I highly recommend this wireless printer for those who want a printer for their homeschooling room.

Pros:

• It has an optional quiet mode that helps keep noise to a minimum
• It works with an Alexa device
• Backed by the 90-day Amazon Renewed Guarantee
• You can find refurbished printers of this brand if you want a cheaper option
• This printer is easy to set up and is user-friendly
• The wireless printing feature and app are easy to use and are very convenient

Cons:

• This printer does not print on both sides of the paper
• This product may not be compatible with some tablets

Happygrill 15-Drawer Organizer Rolling Storage Cart

This organizer cart with wheels is going to be your homeschooling supplies best friend. The cart’s metal frame is of high-quality steel with a smooth chrome finish. It is durable and lightweight, which will serve you for a very long time. There are also four universal wheels with two locks that swivel 360 degrees for easy movement.

This product also has fifteen units, five large drawers, and ten smaller drawers. Each has enough space for your other homeschooling supplies. Plus, all fifteen units are precise, so you can find what you need quickly.

Pros:

• This organizer cart is easy to assemble
• Durable & lightweight
• It includes 5 big drawers and 10 small drawers if you want large storage space
• The wheels allow you to move the organizer smoothly, even across the carpet
• The cart is sturdy enough for you to place heavy devices like a printer or your laptop
• It has four color options (clear, black, colorful, multicolor)

Cons:

• Some packages have cracked or broken drawers and bent carts; you can ask the manufacturer for a replacement

Scotch Brand TL906 2-Roller 9″ PRO Thermal Laminator

This thermal laminator has a five-minute warm-up time and lights up when it is ready. Plus, it has a feature where the laminator shuts off after one hour of being idle. The Scotch Brand TL906 2-Roller 9″ PRO Thermal Laminator is easy to use, and you can choose from 3mm and 5mm thick pouches for your documents, photos, cards, and craft projects.

This thermal laminator boasts of a no-jam feature that prevents misfed items. This feature also prevents items from melting inside the machine. The Scotch Brand TL906 2-Roller 9″ PRO Thermal Laminator has a 5-minute warm-up time. Light signals when the machine is ready. It also features 2 roller machines that could laminate at a speed of 15 in/Min. 

Pros:

• This laminator is easy to set up and is user-friendly
• Assembled product dimensions (L x w x H) 4.00 x 15.80 x 4.00 inches 
• Laminating machine throat width: 6 Inch-10 Inch
• Features never jam technology that automatically prevents misfed items
• Auto shutoff after 1 hour of inactivity helps conserve energy

Cons:

• It is only suitable for use with a grounded 120V outlet
• There are some cases where the product would over-heat itself and stopped working

X-ACTO Adjustable Electric Pencil Sharpener

This heavy-duty electric pencil sharpener is perfect for both classroom and homeschool settings. The electric cutter system stops when the pencil is sharp, producing safe and rounded pencil points. It also has a function where it controls the sharpener when it is in danger of overheating. Plus, the SafeStart feature makes sure that the sharpener does not start when the receptacle is being cleaned. All these features make it easy to use and safe for children to use themselves.

The X-ACTO Adjustable Electric Pencil Sharpener is adjustable to six different pencil sizes. The extra-large integrated receptacle catches all the shavings for easy cleanup.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty electric pencil sharpener 
• Durable construction stands up to wear and tear
• Features a quiet electric motor provides reliable power with minimal disruption
• The flyaway cutter system stops the cutter automatically when the pencil is sharp
• A helical steel cutter produces safe, rounded pencil points
• This electric pencil sharpener has a tough outer case that resists damage
• It has non-skid feet that help the sharpener stay in place

Cons:

• Some jumbo pencil brands cannot fit into the most prominent size option
• After many uses, this sharpener freezes up and stops working

Designstyles Spinning Desktop Stationary Organizer

This rotating wooden organizer has six compartments and nameplates to make it easy to store and label your supplies. Each case is 2-2.5″ wide and can hold pencils and scissors paintbrushes to glue sticks. The rotating tray allows you to spin the organizer 360 degrees. You won’t have to struggle to grab anything you need.

The rotating tray is great for kids and adults as they don’t need to struggle to find a pen ever again. It keeps all of your office essentials and stationery neatly stored on your desktop. It effortlessly blends in with your existing home or office decor. It instantly adds a personal touch to your desk, office, and workspace.

The Designstyles Spinning Desktop Stationery Organizer is from premium quality materials to give it a modern and long-lasting look. It blends perfectly with your homeschooling room or home office.

Pros:

• There are two color options to choose from (white, distressed white)
• Features six compartments and nameplates for optimal organization
• Features a 360-degree rotating tray that makes it quick and easy to grab your tools
• Made from premium quality wood and quality craftsmanship for a stylish and modern look
• This organizer spins smoothly and is very sturdy
• This product can also be a perfect gift for fellow homeschooling parents

Cons:

• Some have a strong smell when you open the package (if it persists, contact the supplier for a replacement)
• Some may find the dimensions too narrow and short

Conclusion

Choosing the best homeschooling supplies can be stressful only when you do not know where to start. I hope through this article, you’ve learned and now have an idea of where to start. With the right homeschooling supplies, lessons and activities with your child will be a breeze.

This is why the best homeschooling supply I’d recommend is the HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer. This wireless printer is easy to use, and its wireless printing lets you print from anywhere in the house. Plus, there is no need for a network connection when it uses wireless direct instead. Besides printing, you can also scan, copy and fax documents. It is an excellent addition to your homeschooling classroom, and you won’t regret buying one.