Amazon Must Haves for the Classroom

Whether you are just beginning your teaching career or you are a seasoned educator, you know Amazon is the place to get all things teacher. There are many obvious items you can purchase, like dry erase markers, but there are also some unique items that have become so handy in my classroom.

Over the years, I have really narrowed in on some great finds on Amazon that I will continue to purchase or suggest to my other teacher friends. I am going to link some of my favourite classroom must haves below and a small write up about why I love them & how you could use them in your own classroom!

Teacher Backpack

As a teacher, you know how much we bring to and from work. I've been through many bags in my career, mostly shoulder bags or totes. After a few years in the classroom, I noticed how much my back and shoulders were bothering me. I spoke to my massage therapist and physio, they both said that it was due to carrying heavy bags (especially a one sided shoulder bag). I of course tried cutting back what I would bring home, but I couldn't completely stop bringing things home with me. I decided to invest in a backpack. Being able to carry the weight evenly on my back has made a HUGE difference in my back and shoulder pain. It is so worth getting a backpack, especially if you are noticing any physical pain!

I chose this bag because it had a padded sleeve for my laptop, it had pockets on the inside & outside, I loved the very wide opening at the top, and as a huge bonus, its super cute! I love that it looks like a classic piece and it goes with everything. There are lots of different colours too! Check it out here!

Teacher Planner

This one goes without saying, but there is nothing better than getting a fresh, new planner at the beginning of the year! I always like checking out the teacher section on Amazon to see what is available. I really loved this paperback one this year. It was light weight to carry in my bag and I also liked the simple layout. There is a monthly overlook, weekly planning sections, data tracker, and a section for student & parent information. This planner has everything I need, plus it comes in so many different covers!

Magnetic Bookshelf

I know this is technically a spice rack, but hear me out... it is the perfect size to hold picture books! I love having it on my whiteboard! It is the way I display the book we are focusing on for the day or the week. I do read alouds daily, but I usually have book that we reference for the week while doing different crafts and activities. I love having our book on display and the kiddos always know what we are working on.

You can purchase a few of these and have your weekly read alouds on display without taking up room on your whiteboard edge. Check them out here!

Pocket Charts

These probably go without saying, but there is nothing better than a cute pocket chart that gives your classroom a pop of colour!  I always have more than one in my classroom so I can use one as the teacher, but I also have a chart that students use with certain centers. I personally have a teal colour charts in my class, but I have my eye on this pretty pastel pink one! There are pocket charts that fit everyone's classroom decor.

Magnet Hooks

These strong hold magnet hooks are a must in my classroom! I use them constantly. They can be used as everyday magnets on your board, but I also use them to hold up my pocket chart and even books!  I wanted to display more books on my board, and I already used my bookshelf, so I put two hooks together and it was able to hold up my books perfectly! Because they are strong hold, you never have to worry about something being too heavy to have up on your board.

The list goes on and on for things that are essential in your classroom, but these were just a few of my favourite.

Comment below some of your Classroom Must-Haves!