10 Preschool Classroom Supplies to Stock: A Guide for Administrators

Stay clean, have fun

Preschool helps kids form the habits and skills that will serve them throughout their education. Teachers and aides are the backbone of the experience, but the preschool classroom supplies children use play a crucial role, too. Here are ten things to keep in stock to make sure the youngest generation of students has what they need to flourish.

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The most important preschool classroom supplies

Preschool is all about helping children develop social and learning skills while developing their sense of independence and creativity. With that in mind, the supplies for a preschool classroom are pretty simple. We’ve listed some of the best preschool supplies below, but just about anything is fair game so long as it helps children learn to express themselves safely. Use this list as a starting point for your own ideas!

1. Crayons

The humble crayon has laid the foundation for many a young artist’s endeavors. Providing an ample supply of crayons can go a long way toward developing a child’s creative mindset. Make sure you have enough for the whole class—the jumbo size are particularly good for tiny hands.

2. Construction paper

What is a crayon without a canvas? Construction paper is the multitool of children’s arts and crafts. Whether drawing hand turkeys or cutting out designs with safety scissors, construction paper can facilitate hours of enriching entertainment. 

3. Scissors, tape & glue

No preschool teacher’s supplies list is complete without these essentials. Not only do these supplies encourage cooperation—kids will likely end up sharing the supplies as they work—but they can also help develop fine motor skills. Just make sure that the scissors are safe and the glue is nontoxic.

4. Cleaning supplies

Wherever preschoolers go, a mess is sure to follow. Paper towels, disinfecting wipes and baking soda can help mitigate the damage when things get untidy. Unfortunately, it can be easy to underestimate just how many cleaning supplies a classroom needs, especially for those catering to preschool-age children. Toys and surfaces need to be wiped down daily, so buying in bulk is probably a wise idea.

5. Educational toys

Finding the correct balance of educational toys in a classroom is challenging, as researchers have found that too many toys can distract kids. The goal should be to have a healthy variety to stimulate and encourage development without being overwhelming. Rotating toys every week can also be helpful, ensuring there’s always something new for kids to interact with.

6. Cubbies

A cubby is a safe space, helping to create a decompression zone between a preschool’s entrance and the areas where children will interact with each other. This delineation makes it easier for them to process complex emotions around the cubbies while also developing spatial and pattern recognition skills.

7. Child-sized furniture

Children need to be able to navigate their environment without the assistance of an adult. Child-sized furniture makes that possible, immersing children in a world built to suit them specifically. Furniture built to their size lets them get their own chairs and reach the table without having to ask for help. Giving kids an environment made for them helps them learn spatial awareness and develop independence.

8. Clear storage containers

Kids need easy access to classroom supplies, and clear storage containers ensure they can retrieve what they want without having to search too much. Much like child-sized furniture, clear containers help children become more independent because they can get what they need without adult support—and learn to put it away when they’re done. By clearly labeling each bin, kids simultaneously learn to use signs and symbols as organizational tools.

9. First aid & safety supplies

A healthy stockpile of safety supplies can round out any preschool teacher supplies a classroom may need. Simple first-aid items like bandages can deal with anything not severe enough for the nurse’s office, while fire extinguishers and similar safety equipment offer an additional layer of emergency preparedness.

10. Sensory toys

Schools need to cater to children with a variety of physical, mental and emotional needs. To do so, it’s important that sensory toys are included among the supplies for a preschool classroom. The inclusion of sensory toys helps children with developmental disorders remain engaged in classroom activities, which in turn fosters a sense of respect and belonging among their peers. Include a wide selection of sensory toys to be rotated out of the classroom periodically so they stay fresh and engaging.

Keep your schoolhouse stocked with Walmart Business

Wrangling preschoolers is no easy task, but having the right tools can make all the difference. With the convenience of Walmart Business, you can focus on what really matters—your students. Sign up for Walmart Business to get free shipping on orders over $35.¹ Already have an account? Upgrade to a Walmart Business+ membership to save over $500/year and enjoy exclusive rewards for your organization.²

¹ Excludes most Marketplace items, freight and specific location surcharges.

² Savings based on 1 free $35+ delivery order vs. $9.95 fee and 1 free shipping order under $35 vs. $6.99 fee biweekly, plus 2% Walmart Business Rewards on monthly order >$250 (average value of $400).