Ready or not, it's back to school they go! Like any ace parent, you've been through lists of first-day essentials, school supplies, outfits, and readiness plans galore. However, I believe the locker, specifically the middle school locker - which is often a person’s first locker, needs a special list of it’s own. I've whipped up a thorough list that includes what most students require, along with a few extra goodies to position your learner for victory. Middle School is a milestone in our lives that leaves a lasting impression - it's the place we forge friendships, develop routines, and start blossoming into our future selves. Alongside the challenge of fitting in, social stress, and academic pressure, some students may start experiencing puberty. This list endeavors to keep your student organized, ready, and self-assured by minimizing unnecessary stress, being prepared for surprises, and presenting a straightforward locker set-up.
Middle School Locker - Organization, Decoration & Emergency Kits
No brainer, but sometimes we need a reminder for the simplest things. Some lockers come with their own locks, others need a combination lock brought from home. And for some of us, it's a bit of both. Think of the primary school lockers as well as the ones in gym class. Got your lock ready? Perfect, let's move on to organizing.
Locker Organization
Every night, like a well-rehearsed ballet, I select my outfit for the following day. It waits patiently for morning, ready to dress me while I'm still in the grip of slumber. My makeup, too, stands in a neatly ordered line, waiting for their call to action. Mornings and I have a complicated relationship, you see. Anything that happens pre-coffee needs to be foolproof, requiring zero cognitive effort. Whether your middle schooler is an early bird or a night owl, these habits will serve them well for years to come. Once their schedule is set, they can arrange their textbooks in class order. This could mean arranging them upright in their locker, or packing them in their backpack in sequence. It's a simple trick, but a real time-saver.
To make use of the vertical space in the locker I highly recommend a locker shelf such as our Adjustable Shelf which expands up to 15" wide. To keep pens, pencils and markers organized and accessible magnetic pen holders are a must. Play around with different sizes or combine with a handy door caddy. You'll find caddies that come with easy-to-use Command hooks, leaving no trace when taken off. We value keeping lockers clean and damage-free, so anything we suggest for organization leaves no sticky mess, marks or harm.
Locker Decor
Students can really personalize their locker by decorating with photos, magnets, temporary stick-on shapes, and of course magnetic wallpaper. Photos can easily be displayed with custom photo magnets or using magnetic clips, like the hand decorated versions in our 12 piece locker accessories kit. Taping photos to the locker is not recommended due to the tape residue that can be left behind at year end when they are brought home.
Magnets, a little touch of magic to brighten up your day. From inspiring words to a home for your essential reminders, they're here to add a spark of positivity to your world. At PictureThisPasadena, we've got all the magnet magic you need; from the elegance of glass and ceramic, to the fun flexibility of thin magnets and even your favorite characters. Transitioning to middle school? It can be quite the whirlwind, right? New faces, new places, and new routines. But remember, it's just a new adventure waiting to unfold. While we can all benefit from inspirational magnets, I find them especially appropriate for middle school students. Our 9 piece inspirational magnets help provide daily encouragement and can be customized by color. Select from our flexible or laminated formats depending on the specific needs of your child. Finally, I recommend a small calendar be added to the locker such as the magnetic one from our limited edition logo collection.
In addition to magnets try temporary stick-on vinyl shapes. Our temporary vinyl dot sticker pack is designed with easy application and guaranteed residue-free removal. These little wonders are as flexible as your imagination, adding a pop of color to any surface. Opt for a rainbow of shades to jazz up your locker, or deck out your phone case to match. The world is your canvas!
Emergency Kits
Imagine school as a grand adventure. And just like any good explorer, your child needs their trusty survival kit. A kit that not only matches their style but also fits snugly inside their locker. It's not just about looking good, it's about feeling confident and ready for anything.
To start, let's talk about the basics. Extra school supplies are a must. Think of it as their secret stash. Whether it's in a magnetic cup or a backup pencil case, a few extra pens and pencils should always be on hand.
Next up, hydration. Encourage them to bring a reusable water bottle. If there's room, a spare one wouldn't go amiss.
Now, let's not forget the mini first aid/emergency kit. Sure, there's a school nurse for the big stuff, but for those tiny paper cuts, a Band-Aid is a life-saver. Companies like General Medi and Pinch Provisions make fantastic compact kits. But if you're feeling crafty, DIY works too. Just make sure to include all the essentials.
And for the girls, sanitary products are key. No one wants to be caught off guard, especially not at this age. It's all about being discrete and ready for anything.
Remember, school is an adventure. So let's make sure your child is prepared to face it head-on.
Middle School Locker Ready
Help your middle-schooler turn their locker into a mini-haven of organization and preparedness. Stave off the backpack chaos with a system that saves time and keeps essentials at their fingertips. With a dash of decor for daily mood-boosts and an emergency kit for peace of mind, they'll be all set to conquer the school year with a confident stride! Use these tips to make it happen.