6 Must-Have Back-to-School Tools to Keep Your Student Organized (and You Sane!)
It’s that time again — sharpen those pencils, dust off those backpacks, and brace yourselves for the annual chaos that is BACK-TO-SCHOOL. But here’s the good news: the right tools can actually help your student stay organized, focused, and ready to take on the school year like a pro (and keep YOU from losing your mind in the process).
These are my go-to favorites — tried, tested, and LOVED by the students we coach every day. They're smart, simple, and let your kid's executive functioning skills shine.
Samsill 5-Subject Spiral School Organizer with Clipboard and Removable Notepad
This is not your average notebook. It’s an all-in-one, carry-it-everywhere, no-more-loose-papers lifesaver. With built-in folders, a removable notepad, AND a clipboard, it’s practically yelling, “I’ve got your back!” Especially helpful for students managing hybrid learning, multiple classes, or, let’s be real, the everyday paper explosion
Bouncyband – Wiggle Seat
Yes, fidgeting can be productive. This subtle, sensory-friendly wiggle seat lets students move while they stay put. Perfect for those with ADHD, anxiety, or just the need to bounce their way through biology.
[READ: LESLIE LIKES: Top 5 Best Study & Organizing Tools for Students with ADHD]
Magazine Files
Don’t underestimate these! Magazine files are the unsung heroes of desk organization. Stand your notebooks, folders, and textbooks up so your student can see what they need — instead of digging through that dreaded Desk Pile of Doom. Simple. Game-changing.
Roaring Spring Wide Landscape Pad
Some students don’t think top-to-bottom — they think side-to-side. This horizontal pad is a dream for visual learners who need space to brainstorm, sketch timelines, or work through math problems without feeling boxed in. It’s like giving their brain room to breathe. And it’s Leslie’s fav!
Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks
Let’s stop the highlight-everything madness. These genius highlighters have a clear tip so students can actually SEE what they’re highlighting (before the whole page turns neon). Cleaner notes. Better review. Less overwhelm.
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty
Because focus can be fun, too. This squishy, quiet, and endlessly kneadable putty helps students regulate energy, boost focus, and chill out — without making noise or mess. Bonus: it comes in tons of colors and textures, so your student can pick one that feels right.
Bottom line? The tools you give your student matter. These are more than just supplies — they’re brain-savers, stress-busters, and structure-builders. And let’s face it, anything that helps your student feel more in control is a win in my book.
Want more back-to-school tips and tools from someone who’s been in the trenches? Follow me @order.out.of.chaos or visit orderoochaos.com. We've got you.
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Order Out of Chaos’ mission is to provide hands-on education, guidance, and coaching to parents and their students through our customized products and programs, so all children – both mainstream and with learning difficulties – can develop the necessary skills needed to experience success in learning and in life.
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