The Most Important Things on Your Back-to-School List Aren’t in the School Supply Aisle

Your back-to-school shopping list probably includes pencils, folders, notebooks, backpacks and calculators. But there’s another list students need as they head back to school: the tools for building healthy relationships.

Take Back the Halls Back to School Supplies List for Healthy Relationships

Boundaries 

Knowing what feels comfortable and being able to communicate your limits builds a strong foundation.

Healthy communication 

Speaking honestly, listening, and asking questions instead of making assumptions and accusations decreases conflict and arguments.

Self-reflection 

Paying attention to your feelings and recognizing when something doesn’t feel right helps you recognize red flags.

Coping skills

Relationships can cause overwhelming emotions.  Learn how to cool down your emotions before you talk with a partner and say something hurtful. 

A little patience 

Healthy relationships take time to build and shouldn’t feel pressured.

A digital safety toolkit 

Thinking before posting, sharing, forwarding, or responding can help you with boundaries and healthy communication.

Consent

Understanding how to communicate what you do and don’t want to do helps keep the relationship safe for both of you. 

A trusted adult on speed dial

Know who you can turn to when you need advice or support.

 Your upstander skills

Practice speaking up or getting help when you see someone being treated disrespectfully.

This school year, add healthy relationships to your supply list. Because while the right supplies can help students succeed in the classroom, respect, communication, boundaries, and supportive relationships help create a school community where everyone can feel valued and safe.

Learn more about healthy relationships at Love is Respect.