Put a Name on It! Fun and Easy Ways to Label School Supplies
Back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind – new shoes, fresh stationery, the inevitable search for last year’s lunchbox… And amid all the excitement (and chaos), there’s one little thing that can make a big difference: labelling. It might not be as thrilling as picking out a new backpack, but adding kids school name labels to their gear can save you from the dreaded lost property pile.
Whether your child is heading to kindergarten or high school, labelling everything from drink bottles to uniforms means less stress, fewer lost items, and less money spent replacing things. Let’s dive into some fun and easy ways to keep your kid’s school supplies organised and clearly named!
Why Labelling Matters
Picture this: your little one accidentally leaves their new hat on the oval at lunch. Without a name tag, that hat’s going straight into the ever-growing pile of mystery items in lost property. But with a personalised label? It’s found and returned before the final bell rings.
Labelling teaches kids responsibility, helps teachers keep track of classroom items, and saves you time and money. Plus, with so many cute and colourful options available, your child might actually want to label their stuff!
Order Your Kids School Name Labels
Before you start labelling, you’ll need the right tools – and that starts with ordering your kids school name labels. Many online photo printing stores offer a range of high-quality, durable options that can be customised with your child’s name, favourite colours, and even fun icons. Whether you prefer classic black and white or bright and bubbly designs, there’s something to suit every style.
From stick-on to iron-on, waterproof to dishwasher-safe, you’ll find everything you need to get started. And the best part? You can personalise them, so your child’s name stands out from the crowd.
What Should You Label?
If it leaves the house, it probably needs a label. Here’s a quick checklist of what to tag before the school year kicks off:
School Bags and Backpacks
These are the first things that get dropped, swapped, or forgotten. Add a durable name tag to the inside and outside of your child’s bag for easy identification.
Stationery
Pencils, markers, rulers, glue sticks – they’re small, they’re shareable, and they love to go missing. Use mini stick-on labels to make sure your child’s supplies come home with them.
Lunch Boxes and Drink Bottles
Food containers go through a lot – spills, drops, dishwasher cycles. Look for waterproof, dishwasher-safe name labels that can handle the daily grind.
Uniforms and Hats
Whether it’s a jumper left in the classroom or a hat dropped during sport, uniform items are prime candidates for the lost-and-found bin. Iron-on or stick-on clothing labels are a lifesaver here.
Shoes
Yes, even shoes! Kids often have matching pairs with classmates, so name labels (especially inside shoes) help avoid any mix-ups.
Jumpers, Jackets, and Outerwear
These are the most commonly lost items during term time. Stick-on or iron-on labels placed near the collar or hem make them easy to identify.
Fun Ways to Use Labels
Labelling doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be a fun back-to-school activity! Let your child help pick out their label designs and colours – it builds excitement and gives them a sense of ownership over their belongings.
You can also use labels creatively:
- Add a name tag to their art folder with a little motivational quote
- Use icons (like stars or animals) for younger kids who can’t yet read
- Colour-code items by subject or day of the week using different label styles
- Tips for Labelling Success
- Clean before you stick: Make sure surfaces are dry and free of dust or oils before applying stick-on labels.
- Press firmly: Give the label a good press to ensure it sticks well and lasts longer.
- Follow the instructions: Especially for iron-on labels – every brand has slightly different application tips.
- Double up if needed: For items that get a lot of wear and tear (like shoes or lunch boxes), consider placing a label both inside and outside for extra visibility.
What’s the Best Way to Label a Child’s Uniform?
Iron-on labels are generally the go-to for clothing. They’re durable, machine-washable, and stay put through sports days and laundry day alike. But if you're after a quicker option, stick-on clothing labels are also a great alternative and surprisingly long-lasting when applied properly. Just make sure you press them down firmly on a care tag or garment label for best results.
Final Thoughts
Labelling school supplies might seem like a small task, but it makes a huge difference. It saves time, reduces stress, and gives your child the best chance of keeping track of their belongings all year round. With name tags, it’s quick, easy, and – dare we say – even fun! So go ahead and put a name on it. Your future self (and your child’s teacher) will thank you.