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Back-to-School Ready: Mom Must-Haves for Kids
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items Back to school season is here and whether it’s your child’s first day of kindergarten or they’re heading into middle school, having the right gear makes a big difference. I put together this list based on things I actually like, use, or personally re...
Sections
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Mom-Approved Backpacks for a Smooth School Year
Mom-Approved Lunch Boxes for School Days
Tried, Tested, and Mom-Approved Pencils
Mom-Approved Notebooks I Keep Reordering
Vitamins and Supplements Must-Haves for School Season
Desk Must-Haves That Actually Help
Mom-Approved Backpacks for a Smooth School Year
A good backpack is more than just a bag, it’s something kids carry every day, so comfort, durability, and style really matter. I chose these because they hold up well, have smart compartments for staying organized, and come in fun designs kids actual...
I like this one for its durability, it’s water-resistant, holds a lot, and still feels lightweight. I rec it for kids who are rough on their bags or carry a heavy load. Bonus: the design is super sleek and sporty! Get yours
ASGE Water-Resistant School Backpack
I picked this backpack because it blends that trendy, clean look with real everyday practicality. Great for middle and high schoolers, it fits books, a tablet, and even a change of clothes. Lightweight and durable! I like this backpack because it's b...
Aesthetic Lightweight Spacious School Backpack
I like this one because the floral design really stands out, it’s super cute in person. I rec it if you want something fun but still practical. It fits books, a laptop, and even a water bottle on the side. Love the vibe!
LEDAOU Floral Backpack - Cute & Roomy
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I like this one for the soft, girly vibe, it’s adorable without feeling too young. I rec it for anyone who wants a backpack that’s both stylish and super functional. The bow detail is a sweet touch, and it holds a lot more than you'd think!
VIDOSCLA Bowknot Backpack - Pretty & Practical
I like how compact and thoughtfully designed this is. It’s not just cute, it actually fits everything a younger kid needs without being oversized. I rec it for parents looking for a no-fuss, quality backpack for daycare or early school years.
Bentgo Kids Backpack - Lightweight & Durable
I like this backpack for its clean look and lightweight feel. I rec it for middle schoolers who want something minimal but still roomy enough for books, lunch, and a laptop. It’s low-key but super functional!
Casual Daypack for Middle School - Sleek & Versatile
I like this backpack for its mix of style and comfort. It looks great but also feels sturdy and padded. I rec it for teens or middle schoolers who want something that’s both fashionable and functional. It fits books, a tablet, and has handy pockets t...
VIDOSCLA School Backpack - Trendy & Comfy
I like this one because it’s perfectly sized for little kids, lightweight, comfy, and super cute. I rec it for preschoolers or kindergartners. It fits snacks, a water bottle, and a change of clothes without being too bulky.
HawLander Toddler Backpack for Ages 3-6
I like this one because it’s waterproof and super easy to wipe clean, huge win for messy days! I rec it for preschool or early elementary. It’s got great space for lunch, a folder, and a favorite toy or two. Plus, the patterns are really fun!
Cute Waterproof Kids Backpack for Preschool
I like this one because the glowing logo is such a cool touch, especially fun (and safer) when it gets dark. I rec it for older kids or tweens who want a sporty look with plenty of storage. It’s comfy, roomy, and holds up well for everyday school use...
ASGE Luminous Reflective Sporty Backpack
I adore how this daypack feels like a comfy hug thanks to its FlexVent™ suspension system and yes, that includes a clever built-in safety whistle! It carries laptop, water, and daily essentials.
The North Face Chuckwalla Daypack - Comfort Meets Adventure
Mom-Approved Lunch Boxes for School Days
As a mom, I’ve tested more lunch boxes than I can count, some too small, some too messy, and some just didn’t survive a week. These are the ones I keep coming back to. They’re easy to pack, easy to clean, and keep food fresh (even picky eaters can’t ...
I like this lunch box because it’s totally leak-proof and keeps food fresh with its insulated design. I rec it for kids who want to bring a variety of snacks or meals without any mess. The compartments make packing easy and organized, perfect for sch...
wiwens Leak-Proof Insulated Kids Lunch Box
I like this one because it comes with a built-in ice pack, so smart for keeping lunches fresh! I rec it for busy school days when you want peace of mind that everything stays cool until lunchtime. It’s sturdy, colorful, and super easy for kids to ope...
Bentgo Chill Lunch Box - Kid-Friendly & Cool
I like this one for how easy it makes packing a balanced lunch. Five compartments keep everything neat and separated. I rec it for younger kids who like variety (and no food touching!). It’s leak-proof, colorful, and super kid-friendly.
Bentgo Kids Bento Lunch Box - Leak-Proof
I like this one because it’s super practical. It comes with built-in utensils and feels really well thought out. I rec it for school lunches or even outings. The compartments are roomy, and the seal keeps it mess-free. Bonus: easy to clean and BPA-fr...
QQKO Bento Lunch Box 4 Compartments Leak-Proof
I like this lunch box for its versatility, it works for little kids and adults. I rec it because the four compartments are great for portioning, and it’s lightweight but sturdy. It’s also microwave and dishwasher safe, which is a win for busy morning...
Amathley Bento Lunch Container - 4 Compartments
I like this one for its simple, kid-friendly design and tableware. I rec it because the leak-proof seal actually works, and the portion sizes are just right for a school lunch. It’s also easy for kids to open on their own, no teacher help needed!
Jelife Kids Bento Lunch Box - Leak-Proof, 4 Compartments & Tableware
I like how practical this one is. It’s microwave-safe, which makes reheating super easy, and dishwasher-safe too (a win for busy mornings). I rec this especially if your kid likes a variety of snacks, those 3 compartments fit everything from fruit to...
MISS BIG Kids Bento Box - Microwave Safe
This lunch bag makes packing meals fun and stress-free. The double insulation keeps food fresh, and the design is a cheerful hit with kids. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle daily school adventures.
Bentgo Kids Double - Insulated Lunch Bag
Tried, Tested, and Mom-Approved Pencils
These are the pencils I keep coming back to year after year. Whether it’s classic yellow No. 2s or fun mechanical options, they write smoothly, sharpen well, and actually last. My kids use them daily, and I’ve stocked up enough to know, they’re worth...
I rec these BIC mechanical pencils because they write smoothly and last long. Perfect for kids who need a no-fuss, dependable pencil for schoolwork every day. Easy to refill and great value!
BIC Mechanical Pencils - Smooth & Reliable!
I like how these mechanical pencils add a pop of color to schoolwork, and they’re super convenient, no sharpening needed! Plus, they come with erasers and refills, making them a great long-term choice for kids. Definitely a fun upgrade to the usual p...
Colorful Mechanical Pencils - Fun & Functional!
I rec these pre-sharpened Ticonderoga pencils for everyday school use. They’re smooth, sturdy, and always deliver consistent writing quality. A dependable staple that never lets my kids down!
✏️Ticonderoga Pencils - Reliable Classic Choice!
I like these glitter markers a lot, they’re super vibrant and add the perfect sparkle to any drawing or school project. I rec them for anyone with kids who love arts and crafts. They’re fun, mess-free, and honestly kind of addictive to use!
✨ Fun, Sparkly Markers for Creative Kids
I always keep a stash of these at home for school and homework time. They come pre-sharpened (a lifesaver during back-to-school chaos!), write smoothly, and last a while. I really recommend them if you're stocking up for the school year!
📝 Classic Pencils - Always Sharp & Reliable!
I rec these Chunkies paint sticks and I like how smooth they glide on paper and how quick they dry. They're perfect for younger kids who love painting but you don’t want to deal with cleanup. The pastel colors are super cute too!
🎨 Easy Paint Fun Without the Mess - Chunkies Paint Sticks - Pastel - Set of 6
I like these Yummy Yummy markers, they smell amazing and make coloring time even more exciting. The scents are fruity and fun, and the colors are vibrant. Perfect for school or creative play at home!
🍓 Yummy Yummy Scented Markers
I rec these fountain pens because they’re beautifully smooth and inspiring for both schoolwork and journaling. Plus, the colorful plastic bodies make them feel whimsical yet practical. My kids loved using them for creative notes and doodling, they ma...
🖋️Fab Fountain Pens - Elegant & Fun to Write With
Mom-Approved Notebooks I Keep Reordering
When it comes to staying organized throughout the school year, good notebooks are a must. I like choosing sturdy ones with quality paper that won’t tear or bleed through easily. I rec notebooks that are fun and colorful too , they make writing more e...
These are my go-to notebooks every school year. I like how the pages don’t tear easily and the covers hold up in backpacks. My kids use them for everything, from class notes to doodles, and they’ve never let us down. Highly recommend for back-to-scho...
Oxford Notebooks - Great Quality for School Notes
I like these Oxford composition notebooks because they’re not only super durable but also come in fun assorted colors that my kids actually get excited about. I rec them for daily school use. The pages are thick enough to handle erasing and markers w...
Classic Oxford Composition Notebooks - Schoolwork
Vitamins and Supplements Must-Haves for School Season
I like keeping our morning routine simple but supportive, especially during back-to-school season. These are the vitamins and supplements I rec for helping my kids stay healthy, energized, and focused. From probiotics to immune boosters, these have m...
I rec this OLLY Kids Multi‑Probiotic because it’s easy to give (fun gummy shape!), gentle on little tummies, and has supported our kids’ digestive health during school season. It’s one of the few supplements we trust and truly see a difference with, ...
💊Kids Multi & Probiotic Multi Vitamins
I rec this OLLY Probiotic + Prebiotic gummy because it’s easy to take and actually works. I like that it's peach-flavored, soft, and free from artificial colors or sweeteners. After adding it to my kids daily routine, I noticed fewer tummy troubles a...
Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy - Gentle & Effective for Digestion
Desk Must-Haves That Actually Help
Keeping school supplies organized makes such a difference during busy school days. I recommend these tools and organizers because they've helped my kids (and me!) stay on track with less stress. From cute storage boxes to handy desk accessories, ever...
I love how this Roller Eraser glides over my workspace, sweeping away pencil scraps and crumbs with zero mess. It keeps my desk neat without needing a brush, exactly the kind of simple, practical tool every mom should have on hand during back-to-scho...
Mr. Pen - No More Crumbs Desk Cleaner
I love this retractable eraser for how mess-free and practical it is. It slides back into its casing, so it stays clean in pencil cases instead of collecting dust. I rec it for everyday school use, it’s fuss-free, kid-friendly, and stays neat in back...
M&G 4+1 Compact Retractable Eraser
I recommend this Kate Spade tackle box for adding a pop of color and polish to any workspace. It’s not just pretty, everything inside is super functional. I love my kids having cute tools that actually keep them organized, and this set does just that...
Chic and Practical - Desk Organization with Style
I recommend this Garden Party tackle box for anyone who loves to stay organized with style. I like how everything is neatly packed: clips, push pins, and more, all in a beautiful floral design that instantly brightens up my kids desk. It’s both funct...
Pretty and Practical - Garden Party Tackle Box
I rec these Staedtler Mars Plastic vinyl erasers because they truly live up to the hype. I like how they erase deeply without leaving smudges or tearing paper, minimal crumbling means less cleanup, and the pack lasts forever. A dependable staple that...
STAEDTLER My Go-To Eraser - Clean, Precise
I rec these Pentel erasers for their smart design: they retract cleanly into colorful casings, so they stay neat in pencil cases and don’t pick up lint. I like how they give precise erasing without crumbles, and the handy retractable feature makes th...
Pentel Clic Retractable Eraser - Stylish
I rec these EXPO Low-Odor Dry Erase Markers because they’re dependable and vibrant, perfect for planning, lessons, or just keeping track of schedules. What I like most is how they dry quickly and erase cleanly, even after a few hours on the board. It...
EXPO Markers That Work as Hard as You Do
I recommend this Vobou multi-tool for how cleverly it combines a protractor, pencil sharpener, and eraser, all in one compact device. I love how it streamlines supplies and saves space in our school supply drawer. Super handy for project-ready mornin...
Vobou Math Geometry Kit - Smart Multi-Tool
I love how this Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp pencil sharpener adapts as my kids get older. I rec it because the dial lets you choose fine or bold tips, and it's sturdy enough to handle both beginner pencils and frequent use throughout the school year. A sm...
Bostitch Office Multi-Sharpener
I recently started using the Mr Pen sharpener with built-in eraser, and it’s a game-changer for school mornings. I like how it keeps both tools in one place and the container captures all shavings so my desk still looks clean. I rec it for compact sc...
Mr. Pen- Pencil Sharpener & Eraser
I recently added the Staedtler metal double-hole sharpener to our school drawer, and it's a dependable little tool that always delivers a clean sharp point. I love how sturdy it feels and how it handles both standard and jumbo pencils effortlessly. I...
STAEDTLER Classic Sharpener That Works Every Time
I find this Maped Study 10-piece geometry set incredibly handy, it’s all my kids need for class inside one tidy case. I rec it because the tools feel sturdy, the clear markings make measurements easy, and the reusable box keeps everything together. I...
Maped Study 10-Piece Compact Geometry Set
This organizer keeps the desk clutter-free and stylish. With three spacious tiers, it’s perfect for sorting mail, files, or notebooks. The mesh design adds a modern touch while keeping everything visible and easy to grab.
Samstar 3-Tier Mesh Letter Tray Organizer - Sleek & Functional
Water Bottles
I find this Contigo water bottle a total lifesaver for the school year, it’s spill-proof, easy to clean, and the pop-open lid is perfect for those rushed sips between classes. I rec it for busy parents looking for a bottle that stays leak-free and hy...
Contigo Aubrey Kids BPA-Free Water Bottle
I love this Thermos FunTainer for how well it keeps drinks cold all day, even through the chaos of school. The push-button lid is perfect for little hands, and I can rely on it not to spill in the lunchbox. Plus, it's tough enough to survive backpack...
THERMOS FUNTAINER - Kid-Friendly Hydration
I’m absolutely loving this Owala insulated stainless steel bottle, it keeps my water cold for hours and the quick–flip push lid means I can sip it one-handed during chaotic school runs. I recommend it for moms (and kids!) who want a durable, leak-pro...
Owala - Hydration with Style & Function
I recently started using the POWCAN insulated water bottle for busy school runs, and it’s a new favorite. I love how it keeps drinks refreshingly cold or warm for hours, perfect whether it’s summer hydration or storing hot chocolate for chilly mornin...
POWCAN Hydration on the Go - Insulated Bottle
This Hydro Flask wide straw bottle has totally upped our hydration game. I love that it keeps drinks ice-cold all day, even during long school hours and the straw lid is perfect for quick, easy sips in between classes. Sleek, durable, and colorful, i...
Hydro Flask 32 Oz - Stay Hydrated
I started using the Ello Pop & Fill bottle for school and everyday life, and it’s quickly become a favorite. I love how the quick-fill lid lets you refill it in seconds without unscrewing, so practical in a rush. It keeps drinks ice-cold all day,...
Ello Pop & Fill Stainless Steel Bottle
I absolutely adore the Owala Princess insulated bottle for its perfect blend of function and cuteness. I love how the flip-top straw is just the right size for little hands, and it's easy to clean without any hassle. Keeps drinks cold for hours and n...
Owala - Kid-Friendly Hydration for School