Now that summer break has ended (sob), it’s time to get the little ones ready for school. We know that your preschoolers and elementary students are excited to be in a classroom setting once again, reunited with their friends. For kids starting school for the first time, it will be an adjustment, but you’ve got this! We’ve curated a handful of essential items that will keep the kids safe and stylish this semester.
Backpacks
Leave those basic Paw Patrol backpacks behind with a personalized bag from Stoney Clover Lane. Available in a rainbow of colors, you can add adorable patches to your backpack, from letters to themed icons like Hello Kitty, Barbie, sports and even social issues. While there’s a long wait online (up to five weeks), we suggest driving to Palm Beach’s Royal Poinciana Plaza and visiting their store for in-person customization.
Water Bottles
Super strong, leak proof and dishwasher safe, the Rambler Junior Kids Water Bottle by Yeti will last all semester long. With a double-wall stainless steel interior and BPA-free duracoating, this is one rugged water bottle. Kids can drop it, leave it out in the sun or jump on it, and it won’t dent, crack or peel. Available in multiple colors, the Rambler Junior holds up to 12 ounces of water or juice, which stays cool all day due to its vacuum insulation.
Bento Boxes
Packing school lunches can be a chore, but the new generation of bento-box-style lunchboxes makes it easier. OmieBox is an insulated lunchbox that can keep food hot and cold at the same time. The inside is made of two walls of stainless steel with the air sucked out in between so heat can’t escape, which keeps food warm for up to 6 hours. Similarly, the double-walled air insulated tray maintains a cool temperature through lunchtime. However, if you prefer all stainless steel, check out the Rover from PlanetBox. These multi-compartment lunchboxes are toxic free (no lead, PVC, phthalates or BPA), dishwasher safe and ideal for even the pickiest eaters and tiny grazers.
Pencil Cases
Keep your favorite student’s pencils and pens organized with the sturdy and popular cases from Pottery Barn Kids. There’s a wide variety of patterns to choose from, spanning dinosaurs, Disney princesses, Hot Wheels, Star Wars, Spiderman and the solar system. Plus, they can be monogrammed, which cuts down on losing yet another pencil case this year.
Masks
One of the best ways to stop the spread of Covid is by wearing a mask, and many schools are requiring or suggesting them this year for children ages two and older. As you know, we love Row + Lee (we make them!). Manufactured in Italy, these reusable masks are soft, breathable, antimicrobial and perfect for all day comfort. Plus, little ones love the fun patterns and bright colors. Take 15% off with code BACKTOSCHOOL (expires on 8/31/21).
Outfits
Shopping for BTS clothing is a rite of passage. At obscenitydefense, our fall fashion just arrived and we’re loving the new looks from Hux Baby, Tiny Whales and Rylee + Cru. Hux Baby’s collection is embracing autumn colors with teal greens, rose pinks and aqua blues. For a surfer aesthetic, pick up a few graphic tees and sweatpants from Tiny Whales for your little dude. And for your petit princess, Rylee + Cru’s cotton jersey babydoll dresses are extra special.
Hand Sanitizer
We’ve been so focused on hand hygiene since the pandemic started, and there’s always a bottle of hand sanitizer in sight. We trust Pipette because it’s rated safe by the EWG (Environmental Working Group) and uses a plant-based ethyl alcohol, which is great for sensitive little hands. In fact, the unscented formulation calms, hydrates and balances the microbiome while eliminating 99% of harmful germs and bacteria. Another gentle option is Gryph and IvyRose’s hand sanitizer gel. Ingredients like aloe leaf and green tea extract replenish moisture while ensuring soothing, non-stick protection from 99% of germs and bacteria.
First Day of School Pennants
For that coveted Instagram shot of your little one’s first day of school (and last day, too), check out these university-style felt pennants from The Letterman Co. Starting with Kindergarten, they go all the way to 5th Grade—or there’s a non-specific option for moms with multiple kids (and even one for those being home schooled). Available in multiple colors, these are super cute and unique.
