As parents know, the rush to get the latest and coolest school supplies is a big part of Back-to-School at the start of the school year. Attending school seems to be a high-consuming activity which leaves some people wondering about the environmental impact ... and raises the question -- What are we really teaching kids?

What We Spend

A study by the Nielson Company research firm released in December 2007 found that the average Canadian household spent about $300 on school supplies at the start of the last (2007-08) school year. The top three categories of back-to-school essentials were (1) binders, (2) pens, and (3) notebooks and memo pads. Total Canadian sales of school supplies amounted to $173-million in 2007, up 6 per cent from a year earlier. The prime shopping window is about eight weeks each fall.

What We Buy

These days the list of school supplies ranges well beyond the traditional pens, pencils, erasers and paper, though these items are still needed is most cases. As well, many families will be looking for calculators, washable and permanent markers, flash drives, DVD drives, laptops, and more. And even utilitarian pens and pencil cases are now available in a rainbow of fashionable hues, some with licenced characters from TV shows and movies. Think Spiderman, Dora the Explorer, High School Musical, Hannah Montana and the rest.

Some Recommendations

• One teacher recommends sticking to basics -- pencils, pens, eraser, ruler, sturdy backpack, reusable lunch containers, and a water bottle. No need to go overboard. And besides, expensive, fancy things may be "lost."
• On the practical side, National Geographic offers a green guide to school supplies. While many of the references are specifically US, there are useful pointers about electronics, lunches, paper and binders.
• We haven't mentioned back-to-school clothes, another high-spending area. Some recommendations:  Kids grow quickly, and thrift shops are a great source to consider. Whether new or gently used, look for well-made garments, double-stitched or bar-tacked at stress points. Adjustable waistbands will allow for kids' growing. Classic designs are a better choice than trendy looks that will be out of fashion in six months. Layers are popular and practical. Durable clothes can be handed down or sent to thrift shops after initial use.
• If you have ideas and suggestions to share, please contact Living Green, Living Well.