Cómo preparar la mochila escolar para el primer curso de tu hijo

Packing the backpack properly is key to ensuring a smoother start to the school year and helping your child feel safe and happy. Today, I’ll tell you how to organize it step by step, what essentials shouldn’t be missing, and some tips to avoid unexpected problems. Let’s get started!

1. Check the school’s list

Each school usually provides a list of required supplies at the beginning of the school year. Before buying anything, carefully review that list. It often includes:

Notebooks or folders

Pencil case with pencils, eraser, sharpener

School agenda

Glue stick, round-tipped scissors (depending on age)

Paints or markers

Some schools specify certain brands or types of materials, especially in preschool or the first grades. It’s important to follow these instructions to avoid problems later on.

Tip: Don’t buy extra supplies “just in case.” Many items never get used and just take up space or add unnecessary weight to the backpack.

2. Choose a suitable backpack

Not all backpacks are suitable. Look for one that fits your child’s size and age well.

Not too big nor too small

With wide, padded straps to protect their shoulders

If it has wheels, make sure your child can carry it on their shoulders when using stairs

With several compartments to organize materials

Avoid buying oversized backpacks thinking “it will last them longer.” Sometimes, extra space only leads kids to pack more things and end up carrying more weight than they should.

3. Include a water bottle and snack (if allowed by the school)

Many schools allow children to bring their own water bottle and a small snack, especially if they spend many hours at school or if there’s no school cafeteria.

Choose lightweight bottles that are easy to open and close, and healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts (if there are no allergy restrictions at school), homemade cookies, or small savory bites.

It’s important to keep them in a separate compartment to avoid accidents or stains on the rest of the school supplies.

4. Spare clothes bag (especially in preschool or early grades)

If your child is in preschool or the first grades of primary school, it’s advisable to always include a small bag with spare clothes:

T-shirt

Trousers or skirt

Underwear

Socks

Accidents happen more often than we think: falls in the playground, spilled food, or simply a bathroom mishap. Having a spare outfit prevents your child from spending the rest of the day uncomfortable or in wet clothes.

5. Label absolutely everything

Many things get lost at school: pencils, erasers, clothing, bottles, backpacks… To avoid wasting time (and money) replacing items, label everything your child takes to school:

Backpack

Pencil case

Pencils and crayons

Water bottle

Spare clothes

Outerwear (coats, jackets, hats)

Nowadays, there are adhesive labels, iron-on labels, or even personalized stamps that are quick to apply and withstand washing. It’s an investment that’s truly worthwhile.

6. Don’t overload the backpack

Many parents want to pack everything “just in case,” but young children shouldn’t carry too much weight. Check the backpack every afternoon and make sure it only contains what’s essential for the next day.

Also, if your child learns to organize their backpack from a young age, they’ll acquire a good habit for the future.

7. Include a special little detail

Starting school for the first time can cause nervousness or insecurity for many children. A small detail in the backpack can give them confidence:

A keychain of their favorite character

A loving note from you tucked into a secret pocket

A fun sticker

These small gestures, though they may seem insignificant, help your child feel accompanied and more at ease on their school adventure.

8. Check the backpack every week

It’s not enough to prepare it well on the first day. It’s essential to check it periodically to:

Remove papers that are no longer needed

Clean any stains or food residues

Replace worn or broken supplies

Adjust the weight if they’re carrying unnecessary items

This habit prevents unpleasant surprises, like finding a forgotten apple after several days or bent notebooks at the bottom of the backpack.

Quick checklist for the first school year backpack

Comfortable and lightweight backpack

Basic pencil case (pencil, eraser, sharpener, crayons)

School agenda (if required)

Water bottle

Healthy snack (if allowed)

Spare clothes bag (in preschool)

School supplies according to the school’s list

Everything properly labeled

A personal little detail to make them feel secure

Preparing your child’s school backpack for their first school year doesn’t have to be chaos. With organization and a bit of planning, the start of school can become an exciting experience for both them and us.

Is your little one starting school this year? Tell me in the comments if you have any questions or if you’d like to share a tip that has worked for you. All experiences are welcome!