Back to school is just around the corner, a fact I’m reminded of every time I run to the store or hop online.

As parents across the nation go back to school shopping with school lists in hand, all the obvious supplies will be sure to be purchased. Backpacks will be picked out, lunch boxes will be chosen, notebooks and binders carefully selected.

But here and there, little things may get left off the list that might possibly make going back to school the most enjoyable. If you notice your back to school list seem a little humdrum, there’s still time to check out the back to school section at your favorite school and art supply website.

4 Must Have Last Minute Back To School Items

Dainty Donut Pencil Erasers

Erasers on the ends of pencils just won’t do. Most kids shred through eraser tips within the first month of school. Extra erasers are often an item that gets left off the school supply list. Don’t go dull with the standard pencil eraser. Instead, choose one that is as much fun as your own child is, like the Dainty Donut pencil eraser.

On The Go Zipper Pencil Pouch

Your kids may be required to buy an exact number of pencils, even a few pens or highlighters. But, where are they going to store all of those writing utensils? A sturdy pouch like the On The Go Zipper Pencil Pouch will get your student organized with one compartment for all their writing and drawing supplies, and an elastic band for wrapping the pouch to a notebook or other item.

Carry Along Sketchbook

Keep the doodles off the homework and the classwork by giving your student a carry along sketchbook they can doodle in during their free time between lessons. Their teachers will thank you for it. Any small size sketchbook that doesn’t take up too much room in the backpack is always a good choice. But, I particularly like the Fox, Cat, or Dog Carry Along Sketchbook for my kids doodles.

Grl Pwr Scented Mini Pastel Gel Pens

Pencils are essential. But pens, especially gel pens, are often left off the list. For any student who loves to get creative with writing, pens in different colors always come in handy. Gel pens are a bonus because they roll onto paper with ease, leaving a rich color behind. If you’ve got a kid who is crazy about girl power, and loves any DIY crafts or art using scented pencils, pens, or erasers, check out Grl Pwr Mini Pastel Gel Pens.

Back to school isn’t just about getting the essentials. It’s also about letting your kids pick out a few special things to serve as tools for their own personal self expression, whether that be through fun filled erasers, colorful pencil pouches, crazy animal sketchbooks, or scented mini gel pens. This back to school season, make sure your child gets all the must haves on the list, and some of the not so must haves, too.