Beyond the Basics: Back to School Essentials

• AUGUST 8, 2012
• By Selena Kohng

Back to school: it’s that time of year that kids loathe and parents love. From kindergarten through college, families descend on big box stores to load up on school supplies. While you’re filling your cart with pencils and protractors, think outside the supply list and make sure you grab these essentials that make the grade. This week we focus on grade school, where cute is king.

Organizers

Teachers everywhere who manage up to 30 kids on their own will tell you: label everything. Be it for lunchbox or folders, gloves or hats, invest in dishwasher-safe, machine-washable stick-on labels. They’re a dime a dozen these days and come in fun colors and designs (think Disney characters or sports themes). Browse Etsy for affordable and cute options, some small enough to fit on pencils or big enough to stick on water bottles.

Water Bottles

Speaking of, a good stainless steel water bottle is another great back to school gift, as is anything lunchbox related. Bento-style food storage is all the rage, and a perfect way to encourage picky eaters. Browse online for Japanese-made bento containers that feature animal characters, or choose BPA-free plastic divided containers. Get your child to eat something other than pb&j with sandwich cutters shaped like animals, planes, flowers or puzzle pieces.

Backpacks

Finally, never underestimate the power of a good backpack. And by good, we mean adorable. For primary grades, check out animal themes in mod designs by brands like Skip Hop, Dante Beatrix, and Four Peas. For upper grades, trade in kiddy designs in favor of scaled down version of grown up bags from brands like The North Face, Columbia, Coleman, Swiss Gear and more.

If these don’t do the trick, leave us a comment below telling us what you’re looking for and we’ll help you find it in our back to school section.