# First grade starter list — getting ready for the first year of school Starting school is a big step for a child and the whole family; besides the backpack, pencil case and uniform, preparing for reading and writing and a new routine belongs on the list too. Treat the school's or teacher's supply list as the main source and use this one to catch what's left. Shared through a room code with your partner, nothing gets bought twice. No sign-up needed. **In short:** For a child starting primary school, the school's or teacher's supply list comes first; the backpack, lunchbox, water bottle, pencil case, pencils, eraser, coloured pencils and notebooks are the basics. A school uniform or smock and sports kit may be needed too. To keep things from getting lost, write your child's name on everything or stick on a label. ## What's on the list - School's supply list — get it before shopping - School backpack — light, adjustable straps - Lunchbox - Water bottle — easy to open, leak-proof - Pencil case - Pencils — a few, with spares - Erasers - Pencil sharpener — with a lid - Coloured pencils - Felt-tip pens or crayons - Notebooks — the type the school asks - Scissors — round-tipped - Glue stick - School uniform or smock — per the school's rules - Sports shoes and kit — velcro or slip-on - Name labels — for bag, bottle, pencils - Folder — for papers from school - Raincoat - Picture storybooks — to read together - Modelling dough — helps hand strength ## Tips - Don't do the big shop before the school's supply list arrives; what's asked for differs from school to school and class to class. - Walk the route, school gate and classroom with your child before term starts; a familiar place softens first-day nerves. - Move bedtime and wake-up time closer to the school routine a few weeks ahead; the first week will be less tiring. - Pack the bag with your child rather than for them; knowing what's where also builds a sense of responsibility. ## Frequently asked questions ### Does a child need to read and write before starting first grade? Usually not; reading and writing are taught at primary school. Reading stories together at home and supporting hand skills like holding a pencil and drawing lines is enough preparation; talk to the teacher if you're worried. ### How should you choose a school backpack? Pick a light one that sits well on the back, with wide, adjustable straps. A commonly given guideline is that a full bag shouldn't exceed a tenth of the child's body weight; have your child try it on and see if it's comfortable. ### How can you help a child settle into school? Visit the route and classroom beforehand, move bedtime and wake-up times closer to the school routine a few weeks ahead, and stay calm and patient in the first days. Giving your child time to talk after school also helps. ### Can I change the list? Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories. ### Do I need an account? No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup. ### How long is the list kept? As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock. ### Can I install it on my phone? Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap. --- [Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/first-grade-starter-list) — 20 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.