The case, how to choose it and what to put in it

The pouch is an essential accessory for your child’s satchel bag. Indeed, to work properly, your child will need pens, pencils, felt-tip pens and other school supplies.

If you are about to prepare your child’s first day at school, you may feel a little overwhelmed by the wide choice of pouches. In addition, you may be wondering which supplies will be essential.

With this in mind, we will look at the different types of pouches. We have also drawn up a list of the best school supplies to slip into your children’s pouch. They are practical, comfortable and safe, allowing them to complete all their schoolwork without any problems.

What to put in your child’s pencil case

Many parents wonder what to put in their child’s pouch before they start school for the first time.

Although schools provide lists of the supplies children will need throughout the year, the truth is that there are many items on the market and it can be difficult to choose the right ones.

Pouches and pencil cases are important accessories that allow children to carry their school supplies between home and the classroom. Having a good school pouch keeps everything neatly organised, while ensuring that supplies remain in good condition.

Before considering what to put in your child’s school pouch, you must choose the most suitable model.

The different types of school pouches

Using a pouch to protect writing instruments dates back at least to 1860, when they were cylindrical in shape. Since then, many different models have emerged for carrying pens and pencils. Nowadays, there are many options on the market.

Basically, you can choose between three pouch models. First of all, there are pouches made from hard-wearing, washable fabrics. There are also plastic and metal cases.

The first option is the most recommended because of its practicality. The best models have different internal compartments, allowing you to separate bulkier items such as scissors, markers and pencil sharpeners from pencils and coloured pencils.

Metal cases can also be useful if your child does not need to carry too many supplies. However, you should bear in mind that the space they offer is more limited.

In addition, they make a great deal of noise when carried in a backpack. For this reason, some teachers do not want metal cases.

The essential school supplies to put in a pouch

Now that we have reviewed the different pouch options, it is time to take a look at the most practical supplies you should put in your child’s.

Pencils

Children should have at least two pencils in their pouch. They should always have a spare in case the other one breaks or gets lost.

It is important to check your child’s pouch when they return from school to see whether they have kept any broken pencils. If so, remove them immediately. Wood splinters can hurt your child or damage the inside of the pouch. Also remember to check whether a pencil is missing.

Pencil sharpener

Always choose pencil sharpeners with containers. This will mean your child does not have to get up to dispose of the shavings.

Also check the cap before making your purchase. It must be tight enough not to open and spill the shavings inside the pouch.

Eraser

Erasers come in different shapes. Choose classic erasers, which last much longer. It is not a bad idea to include a smaller spare eraser, just in case. Since these items are used so often, they tend to get lost.

Flexible ruler

Flexible rulers are excellent school supplies. You can store them anywhere—not just in the pouch. Your child can use it throughout the school year because it will not break easily. You will also avoid the accidents that can sometimes result from harder rulers, such as metal ones.

Scissors

You should always buy round-ended scissors, whatever your child’s age. When they are young, this helps prevent accidents, and when they are older, it prevents damage to the inside of the pouch. Scissors are available in different styles, with ergonomic designs for a better fit in your child’s hand.

Felt-tip pens and markers

The best options for children are those containing fewer chemicals. This will prevent any potential allergic reaction. Also opt for washable varieties.

Coloured pencils

Choose washable coloured pencils that are not too thin. Thicker models will allow your child to grip them more easily, making them simpler to use.

How to organise school supplies in the pouch

If you have purchased a pouch with separate compartments, separate large items from small ones. If you wish, you can organise the items by category.

One section can hold scissors, the pencil sharpener, the ruler and erasers, while another can store pencils, coloured pencils, markers and felt-tip pens.

Meanwhile, if you have a single-compartment or metal pouch, you can always place the largest items at the bottom with the smaller items on top. Another option is to place the most frequently used items last so that your child can find them immediately.


These tips will not only help preserve school supplies but also help your child organise their school belongings. Finally, do not forget to write your child’s name on the pouch, ensuring it can be returned if lost.