10 Things Your Kids Don't Need for Back to School

I remember when my mom bought me the coolest pencil case ever. It had all of these compartments. I was in maybe first grade and I still remember that. Was it necessary? No. Did I love it? Yes. Some things they need. Some things they want. Some things they don't need at all. Far be it for us to deprive your kids of something because they don't need it, but maybe this list will help you tailor your master shopping list and spend on what you really need.

1. Spaghetti-strapped tops-Many schools don't allow these. Even more schools keep classrooms freezing. So if you opt for the cami, go ahead and get the matching cardigan. That way they girls will be prepared for a strict dresscode or a cold classroom.

2. Silly Bandz/Slap Bands-I was a shocked as any 90s kid to find out that slap bands still exist. But our resident teacher advises against sending kids to school with these added distractions.

3. Crocs-Unless you plan on sending your child to school with extra PE shoes, skip the Crocs. They're not safe to play sports in.

4. 850 pencils-OK, so 850 might be an exaggeration, but according to Mom2Mom your kid does not need the mass amount of pencils that teachers ask for. That's not to say you shouldn't honor the teacher's request, you just don't have to do it on the first day of school. Wait a few weeks until you get a killer deal and stock up then.

5. Glitter-According to this blog, art teachers despise glitter, pom poms and popcicle sticks. Who knew?

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6. Fancy pens and pencils- I've been there. You lose your favorite pen. If it bothers an adult, you bet its going to bother a kid. Make pencils for writing.

7. Smelly markers- gone are the days of Milky Pens. The "thing" these days is smelling markers. According to this website, the younger kids try to eat them and the older kids play practical jokes.

8. Every cute idea you saw on Pinterest packed in their lunchbox- Yes, that ladybug sandwich was adorable, but stick to the basics. Sandwich, healthy snacks and some juice or water.

9. Anything that is difficult to open- Remember that episode of Friends where Joey does the commercial for the milk spout? It's attached to this story if you don't know what I'm talking about. Kids struggle with juice boxes. Teachers struggle with juice boxes. Rocket scientists struggle with Capri Suns.

10. Flip flops- Again, it's a safety issue. When you line kids up and make them walk, you need secure footwear. Avoid trips by getting sensible shoes.