Big kid essentials checklist
6–12 years. What to think about at this age, with links to our picks.
Big kid checklist
A starting point, not a rule. Every family and every child is different. Follow each product's instructions and age limits, and check with your doctor on health questions.
School
- A comfortable, well-fitting backpack that sits on both shoulders (check your school’s supply list first)Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Simple Modern Fletcher kids backpack
- Basics: pencils, erasers, notebooks, ruler, scissors, gluePopular pick on Amazon.ca: Amazon Basics notebooks (5-pack), LIVINGO kids scissors (3-pack), Crayola crayons (24-ct, 2-pack)
- A planner or calendar for homework and activitiesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Rileys academic planner 2026-27
- A quiet, well-lit spot for homework
Lunch & snacks
- An insulated lunch bag or box and ice packPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Bentgo Kids insulated lunch bag
- A leak-proof water bottle and reusable containersPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Thermos Funtainer bottle with straw, Finorder snack containers (6-pack)
- Check your school’s allergy rules before packing snacks
Sleep
- A steady bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends where you can
- Bedding that is comfortable for their size, and blackout curtains if light keeps them upPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Viviland kids twin sheet set, NICETOWN blackout curtains
- Screens off well before bed, with a plan for where devices charge overnight
Hygiene
- A toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, with brushing twice a dayPopular pick on Amazon.ca: GUM Monsterz kids toothbrushes
- Hair care and body wash suited to their age and skinPopular pick on Amazon.ca: ATTITUDE kids shampoo & body wash
- Deodorant and other items as they begin to need themPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Fresh Monster kids deodorant
- Hand sanitizer for the backpack
Clothing
- Clothes that fit for the season, in layers
- Sports and gym shoes, plus indoor shoes if your school asks for them
- Rain gear and warm outerwearPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Kids hooded rain jacket
- A spare set of socks and gym clothes
Active & outdoors
- A certified helmet for biking, skating or scootering, worn every timePopular pick on Amazon.ca: Kids bike helmet (CPSC)
- Protective gear for the sport (shin guards, pads, mouthguard) as the coach advisesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: adidas kids shin guards
- A sports bag and a water bottle for practicePopular pick on Amazon.ca: Puma kids duffel, Thermos Funtainer bottle with straw
Play, hobbies & learning
- Building kits, science kits and art setsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: LEGO Classic brick box, National Geographic chemistry set, Crayola Inspiration art case
- Board and card games for family nightsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Trouble board game
- Books in a reading level they enjoy, and a library card
- A way to try new hobbies without buying a lot: borrow, rent or share
Safety & screens
- Family rules for screen time and online safety, set together
- Parental controls and age-appropriate settings on devices
- A plan for getting to and from school, and a way to reach you
- The right car seat or booster until the seat belt fits properly, as the seat manual and your local rules sayPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Diono Cambria 2 XL booster
Ready to shop?
See what we recommend: Big kid gift ideas. For toys and gifts see our Christmas and birthday guides.