As each generation progresses through school, the tools and supplies they use evolve, reflecting broader cultural shifts and technological advancements. From the simple, utilitarian supplies of baby boomers to the tech-driven gadgets of gen alpha, school supplies have always been a mirror of their times. Here’s a look at the most popular school supplies that defined the school experiences of baby boomers, Generation X, millennials, Generation Z and Generation Alpha.
Baby boomers (born 1946-1964)
Baby boomers attended school during an era of post-war optimism and growth. Their school supplies were straightforward and practical, emphasizing durability and functionality.
#2 pencils: The quintessential school supply, the #2 pencil, was a staple in every boomer’s pencil case. It was used for everything from arithmetic to essay writing, accompanied by pink erasers to correct any mistakes.
Composition notebooks: With their distinct black-and-white marbled covers, composition notebooks were where boomers scribbled down their notes and completed assignments. These notebooks were known for their durability and ruled pages.
Metal lunchboxes: Decorated with popular TV shows or comic book characters, metal lunchboxes with matching thermoses were a highlight of the school day. These sturdy boxes not only carried lunches but also showcased a child’s personality and interests.
Slide rules: Before the advent of calculators, boomers relied on slide rules for complex mathematical calculations. These analog devices required skill to use, but they were an essential tool for students in higher grades.
Book straps: Instead of backpacks, many boomers used book straps to bundle their textbooks together. These straps made carrying books to and from school more manageable, although not as convenient as modern backpacks.
Generation X (born 1965-1980)
Gen X students saw the introduction of more personalized and innovative school supplies, reflecting the era’s growing emphasis on individuality and self-expression.
Trapper Keepers: These colorful, customizable binders were the ultimate organizational tool for Gen Xers. With pockets for loose papers and folders for each subject, Trapper Keepers helped students stay organized in style.
Mechanical pencils: A step up from traditional wooden pencils, mechanical pencils were a popular choice for Gen X students. They offered the convenience of never needing to sharpen and came in various designs and colors.
Scratch and sniff stickers: Often used by teachers as rewards, scratch and sniff stickers were a fun, sensory delight. Students would collect these stickers and trade them with friends, adding a bit of joy to their school day.
Rubik’s cube: While not a school supply in the traditional sense, the Rubik’s cube became a popular brain teaser during the late ’70s and early ’80s, challenging Gen X students to solve the puzzle during breaks.
Cabbage patch kids and other collectibles: Gen X also saw the rise of collectible toys like cabbage patch kids, which were often brought to school as a way to showcase trends and interests among peers.
Millennials (born 1981-1996)
Millennials were the first generation to grow up with the Internet, and their school supplies reflected a blend of traditional tools and the beginnings of digital technology.
Gel pens: Known for their smooth ink flow and vibrant colors, gel pens were a millennial favorite for taking notes, doodling and adding personal flair to schoolwork.
Lisa Frank stationery: Bright, colorful and full of whimsical designs, Lisa Frank folders, notebooks and stickers were adored by millennial students. These supplies allowed for personalization and self-expression.
TI-83 graphing calculators: As math and science curricula advanced, the Texas Instruments TI-83 graphing calculator became a must-have for high school students. This device was essential for algebra, calculus and even standardized testing.
Personal organizers/planners: Before the widespread use of smartphones, personal planners and organizers helped millennials keep track of assignments, exams and social activities. These planners often featured fun, customizable covers.
CD players and portable music devices: The millennial generation brought music to school in their backpacks — with portable CD players or early MP3 players — which were the precursors to the digital music revolution.
Generation Z (born 1997-2012)
Gen Z students were raised in a fully digital world, and their school supplies reflect this shift, blending traditional tools with advanced technology.
Smartphones and tablets: For Gen Z, smartphones and tablets became essential school supplies, used for everything from researching assignments to staying in touch with classmates. Educational apps and digital textbooks replaced many traditional tools.
Stylish backpacks: As Gen Z students navigated the digital age, their backpacks became both functional and fashionable, designed to carry laptops, tablets and other tech gadgets safely.
Wireless earbuds: With the advent of streaming music services, wireless earbuds became a common accessory for Gen Z students, used during commutes, study sessions and breaks.
Bullet journals: Despite their tech-savviness, many Gen Z students embraced bullet journaling as a way to organize their thoughts, assignments and goals. These customizable journals combined creativity with productivity.
Reusable water bottles: Reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues, Gen Z students often carried reusable water bottles; which became a staple in backpacks across the globe.
Generation Alpha (born 2013-present)
Generation Alpha, the first to be born entirely in the 21st century, is growing up in a world where technology is deeply integrated into education. Their school supplies are highly influenced by this digital environment.
Laptops and Chromebooks: As schools increasingly move towards digital learning, laptops — particularly Chromebooks — have become essential for Gen Alpha students. These devices are used for everything from attending virtual classes to completing homework.
Digital styluses: With the rise of tablets in classrooms, digital styluses are becoming a popular tool for note-taking, drawing and interactive learning. These styluses allow students to write and draw directly on screens, merging traditional writing with digital technology.
Educational apps: Gen Alpha’s education is supplemented by a wide range of educational apps; from math games to language learning platforms. These apps are often integrated into classroom learning, making them as vital as traditional textbooks.
Interactive smartboards: The blackboards and whiteboards of previous generations have been largely replaced by interactive smartboards. These boards allow teachers and students to engage with lessons in dynamic, multimedia ways.
Eco-friendly school supplies: Reflecting a growing consciousness around environmental issues, Gen Alpha students are more likely to use eco-friendly school supplies — such as recycled notebooks and biodegradable pencils — emphasizing sustainability from a young age.
A journey through time
School supplies have evolved dramatically across generations, reflecting the changing needs, technologies and values of society. From the simplicity of baby boomers’ pencils and notebooks to Gen Alpha’s tech-centric tools, each generation’s school supplies tell a unique story about the era in which they were educated. As we look to the future, it’s clear that school supplies will continue to evolve, driven by innovations and the ever-changing landscape of education.
This story was created using AI technology.
