Sure, there’s nothing like those fresh notebooks and sharp pencils that mark the beginning of another year. But getting ready to head back to school takes a lot more than nostalgia. Over the years, I’ve tried a lot of different things to help with getting organized, packing lunches and staying on top of schedules. These products are by far my favorite picks for a smoother back to school season.
Ready, Set, Get Out the Door
The Zazoo Photo Clock
Switching from summer to school schedules can be tough. Especially since little guys can’t tell time yet. Luckily, this useful tool helps us train them about asleep and awake times. The Zazoo Photo Clock shows a day-time “awake” photo to indicate to the child that it is time to start the day. A night-time “sleep” photo display assures the child that it’s time to rest.
The Ready Set Go! Board
I’m a big fan of setting kids up for independence. I use this Ready Set Go! Board with my little ones so they can manage their morning routines. The picture icons are perfect for pre-readers and children feel pretty darn good about themselves when they have big kid responsibilities.
Litterless Lunches
Laptop Lunches®
Litterless lunches are the way to go, and this reusable bento-ware lunch system makes it a snap. I’ve been using this product for years and while I still wish all those lunches would just pack themselves, having Laptop Lunches to work with is the next best thing.
The Balanced Day Lunch Kit
This 2-sided insulated lunch bag helps you organize your child’s food. You can separate hot from cold, lunch from snacks and it’s designed to keep drinks standing upright to avoid spills.
Mabel’s Labels
Want to make sure all your lunch gear comes home? Make sure you use Mabel’s Labels for containers and everything else that leaves the house. For the ultimate peace of mind, add an Allergy Sticker to those lunch containers to make sure teachers and other caregivers are aware of your child’s allergies. And don’t forget to label everything else that goes to school, like clothes, shoes, backpacks and all other belongings to avoid the Lost and Found blues. If you’ve got a little one starting school for the first time this year, you’ll find every label you need in the brand new Little Kid School Combo – including super-cute Preschool Shoe Labels! (PS: They’re great as daycare labels, too!) With school labels on everything, parents save money by not having to replace lost items and it’s never too early to start teaching children stewardship over their belongings.
Eco Vessel
Rather than sending juice to school, pack your child’s bag with a reusable water bottle. Eco Vessel makes great stainless steel water bottles in sizes perfect for kids. Plus, they have a lot of fun designs & colours and they’re leak-proof! Which means your little ones can enjoy water or smoothies on the go without you worrying about wet artwork or soggy lunches.
Cut the Complaints
The Knot Genie™ Detangling Brush
This awesome brush was created for every mom that has endured the foot stomping and screaming matches that come with brushing their child’s hair. I have three girls who stomp and scream. The knot genie has been a very welcome member in our family.
Airbac Backpack
Worried about the heavy backpacks your youngsters are carrying around? It’s no wonder the Airbac is a PTPA winner—this little beauty was designed for comfort, with the majority of the weight lifted off the upper back and shoulders of the wearer, where most pain is felt. It spreads the weight across the entire back and your kids will notice the difference!
Stride Rite
Comfy shoes? Yes, please! When it comes to little feet, parents need to stay one step ahead. This year, back-to-school shoes are built for childhood, with Made 2 Play styles that kids love and the design features parents want: memory foam for comfort, trusted Stride Rite durability and, now even 100% machine-washable materials.
Mom’s Corner
Net Nanny
Net Nanny is an authority on internet security for families, protecting viewers from porn, cyber bullying, online predators and more. Start the new school year feeling confident that your kids are safe online.
VolunteerSpot
If you are a PTA parent, you need to know about VolunteerSpot. If you’ve ever tried to organize a class event or party, you know the “reply all” email list gets ridiculous! VolunteerSpot is a free site that lets you set up an event and people can sign up for time slots or say what they’re going to contribute. So easy!
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