This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a commission if you make a purchase at no additional charge to you. This helps offset the cost of running this blog and I appreciate your support.
The countdown to the new school year has begun! It’s time to gear up and get ready for an epic year of learning, laughter, and adventure! But before the bell rings, make sure your mini-me (and you, too, parents!) is equipped with the ultimate tools and tricks to conquer the classroom and beyond!
Here’s our list of must-have items for both parents and kids to ensure a successful and stress-free year:
So, grab your pencil case and let’s dive in!
17 Back-to-School Must-Haves for 2024:
1.Weekly Hanging Organizer
Simplify mornings (like your park meetups!) a breeze with a weekly hanging organizer for kids’ clothes! Plan and prep their outfits for the week and say goodbye to “what to wear” dilemmas. Plus, it’s a great way to teach your mini-me about planning and responsibility!
2. Chore Chart – Our Morning Routine Hero!
Our chore chart is more than just a list – it’s a daily routine that brings us together! I customize it to fit our needs, and the kids love checking off tasks like:
– Get dressed
– Put on lotion
– Make your bed
– Brush your teeth
– Fix your hair
It’s a fun way to start the day, and I’m no longer a broken record (HAHA!) reminding them of their tasks. It’s a MUST add to your back-to-school list for this year.
3. Bento Lunch Box or OmieBox
A parent’s favorite, the Bento Lunch Box, is a game-changer for mealtime! My kids absolutely love it, especially my son! 🤩 Pack healthy lunches and snacks with a Bento Lunch Box or OmieBox and make mealtime a breeze. These containers are designed for fun and ease, with separate compartments for a variety of foods. Plus, they’re perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks at the park! 🌳
4. Stanley Cups
Keep drinks hot or cold with Stanley Cups. Durable and leak-proof, these cups are perfect for school and on the go.
5. The Green Light 3-in-1 Breakfast Station
The Green Light 3-in-1 Breakfast Station is the perfect addition to your morning routine! This amazing breakfast station is designed to make mornings easier and more fun for kids aged 8 years and older. With its simple and intuitive interface, your kids can easily operate it on their own, giving them a sense of independence and confidence.
We use it at home, and it’s been a lifesaver for this momma! It saves me so much time in the morning, allowing me to focus on getting everyone ready for school while my kids take charge of their own breakfast. It’s amazing to see them learn and grow, and this breakfast station has been a big part of that.
6. Ice Packs for Lunch Boxes
Keep lunches cool and fresh with ice packs. If your kids don’t have one yet, this is a a must-have for school lunches.
7. First Day of School Signs
Ditch the old, boring back to school sign and upgrade to a cute custom one that showcases your little one’s personality! Make this school year extra special with a personalized sign that features their name, grade, and favorite colors or characters. Capture memories with a photo in front of the sign but remember to keep your little one’s information safe and private as you share photos online.
These are our favorite signs for this school year!
8. Snack Bag
Pack healthy snacks with a reusable snack bag. Perfect for school or on-the-go. No more throwing money away with Ziploc bags.
9. Steamer – Wrinkle-Free Clothes Made Easy!
Ditch the ironing board and say goodbye to wrinkles with a clothes steamer! This easy-to-use and convenient appliance makes quick work of smoothing out wrinkles and creases in your clothes. Perfect for busy mornings, it’s a must-have for anyone who wants to look polished and put-together without the hassle of ironing. I have to admit, we use our steamer way more than I thought we would – it’s become a staple in our morning routine and has saved us so much time and stress!
10. Daily Planner Notebook – A Mom’s Best Friend!
As a busy mom, staying organized is key to keeping your sanity! A daily planner notebook is your ultimate sidekick, helping you:
– Keep track of appointments, playdates, and school schedules
– Manage your to-do list and prioritize tasks
– Plan meals, grocery shopping, and household chores
– Set personal goals and self-care reminders
– Reduce stress and feel more in control
And let’s be real… a daily planner is just for you, but to keep the whole household on the same page! I recommend adding a cute and functional clear calendar on the fridge, where everyone can stay organized.
11. Touchland Power Hydrating Hand Sanitizer
I LOVE THIS SANITIZER! We’re not in school with our kids, so a hand sanitizer is a MUST-ADD to their back-to-school bags. Touchland Power Hydrating Hand Sanitizer is our top choice – it’s gentle, effective, and keeps germs at bay. It’s a simple way to promote good hygiene habits and keep them healthy all year round!
12. Emergency Contact Cards
Ensure your child’s safety with emergency contact cards, a simple yet vital tool for kids 10 and younger. These cards provide essential contact information, including:
– Parent/guardian names and phone numbers
– Home address
– Medical information (if applicable)
– Emergency contact details
In case of an unexpected situation, such as a school evacuation, accident, or illness, these cards quickly provide crucial information to authorities, teachers, or caregivers. Keep them in your child’s
13. JRTrack 3 Smart Watch – A Game-Changer for Our Family!
We invested in the JRTrack 3 Smart Watch for our 10 and 7-year-olds, and it’s been a lifesaver! With an annual plan, we can control their contact list and always track their location. But that’s not all – they also have access to:
– Make and receive calls
– Send and receive texts
– Record and send voice notes
– Set up alarms: remind them of important tasks or appointments
– School mode: silence notifications during school hours
The JRTrack 3 Smart Watch is more than just a watch – it’s a tool that helps us stay connected and keep our kids safe. If a cellphone is NOT yet an option, we can’t recommend it enough!
14. Makeid Label Maker Machine – Label Like a Pro!
Ditch the permanent marker and upgrade to a Makeid Label Maker Machine! Easily label school supplies, belongings, and even storage bins with customizable tags. This machine is a game-changer for organization and identification. Trust me, your kids’ schoolteacher will appreciate you adding their name to the water bottle!
15. Sandwich Cutters – Lunchtime Just Got Easier!
Pack lunches and snacks like a pro with Sandwich Cutters! These handy cutters make quick work of sandwiches, fruits, and veggies, ensuring healthy meals and minimal waste. Your kid’s lunchbox (and the planet) will thank you!
16. Lint Roller – Wrinkle-Free Wonder!
GO BUY IT! The Lint Roller is a must-have for any family. Whether it’s for school uniforms or dress clothes, this little tool will save you time and stress. Trust me, one day you’ll need it, and you’ll thank me later!
17. New Coffee Machine – Caffeine Fuel for Busy Mornings!
Let’s be real, parents need coffee to survive those chaotic school mornings! Treat yourself to a new coffee machine and fuel up for the day ahead. With a fresh cup of joe, you’ll be ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way!
These 17 back-to-school essentials will help your kids stay organized, focused, and safe throughout the year. Happy shopping!
