Back-to-School Basics

Back-to-school season is that special time of year that parents look forward to. While we all love our little ones around, let’s face it, most of us are ready for a break. As summer comes to an end, the focus shifts from fun-in-the-sun to the school year that lies ahead.

It’s no secret that kids benefit from starting out on the right foot, which is why it’s so important they’re properly equipped from day 1. Part of ensuring your child’s success, both academically and socially, is preparing them as best you can.

This back-to-school list covers the most essential items they’ll need to get through another school year.

Backpack Hack

For starters, they’ll need a backpack.

We love the Big Kid Backpacks from Skip Hop for their fun designs, craftsmanship, and versatility.

Measuring 11" L x 4.25" W x 14" H, they have plenty of room to fit everything your child needs.

Offered in 8 creative designs (pug, koala, butterfly, dino, strawberry, rocket, soccer, and ice cream), the pack has multiple compartments for holding books, writing utensils, a water bottle, and a lunch box.

Easy clean materials protect it from spills, and adjustable straps allow for years of use to keep up with your growing child. 

Water Water Everywhere

It’s not always easy to stay hydrated throughout the day, but it’s vitally important to maintain a healthy body. Hydration helps stabilize your child’s mood, optimizes organ function, and provides kids with more restful sleep. So, it’s really a no-brainer to send your child to school with a full water bottle.

Skip Hop’s Zoo Stainless Steel Straw Bottle is one of our favourites. It holds 350ml of liquid and measures 3.5” W x 3.5” D x 6” H, making it easy for kids to handle and use. Its stainless steel material keeps drinks cool, while an exterior silicone sleeve provides grip and protects little hands from the cold.

A flip-up straw makes it easy to drink from, and at the end of the day, you can toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

Chow Time

Growing kids eat A LOT.

The Penny Scallan School Lunchbox is one of our favourites, and for good reason.

Available in 4 different designs, this box is waterproof, scratchproof, and sports a thermal-lined interior for maximum insulation.

Snacks from lunch go in separate compartments, with the larger one designed to accommodate the Penny Scallan Bento Box Mini.

For foods that require the use of cutlery, you can’t go wrong with the Bamboo Spoon & Fork Set by Cink. Not only is it a natural product, but it comes in various colours, is easy for toddlers and little kids to handle, and is suitable for both hot and cold foods.

If you’re looking for a dishwasher-safe option, grab the stainless steel OXO TOT Fork & Spoon. This set has curved, easy-to-grip handles and throws in a protective travel case, keeping the utensils clean at all times.

With school days being so long, you’ll want to make sure your child has some snacks to keep them going. We love Skip Hop’s Zoo Snack Cup for its clever design, generous 700ml size, and no-spill snap-top lid.

Too Cool for School

Kids need to spend time outdoors but it’s important to take precautions against the sun’s UV rays.

For this reason, we recommend these awesome Surf Sunglasses by Real Shades. They offer 100% UVA/UVB protection, are shatterproof, and reduce glare to protect your child’s eyes.

These Surf Sunglasses are styled after the popular Wayfarer Ray-Bans of the 1980s and are available in 7 fun colours that will keep your kid looking cool all year long.

Also, for additional protection against the sun, don’t forget to pack a hat and sunblock!

Rain Rain Go Away

Not every day is sunshine and rainbows, so it’s best to have your child ready for the inevitable cloudy days and wet recesses.

The easiest way to keep them from being soaked is with the CaliKids Rain Poncho. Its simple design makes it easy to throw on top of their clothes, and it comes with adjustable snaps as well as a reflective trim safety feature. This rain poncho is available in small, medium, or large sizes, and pink, yellow, or blue colours to suit all tastes.

On those super wet days, your best bet is probably the Tuffo Muddy Buddy. These popular waterproof coveralls offer full-body protection from the rain and elements, so you know your little one will stay nice and dry regardless of the weather. Made from a heavy-duty polyester fabric, these coveralls have a relaxed fit that allows your child to move uninhibited and to layer comfortably when it's cool out.

For further protection against wet weather, the Penny Scallan Kids Umbrella is a must-have. It utilizes a safety system devoid of buttons and joints to protect tiny fingers from being pinched when opening and closing. It’s also designed with fibreglass spokes and a soft rubber handle — making it lightweight and easy for kids to grip. Covered in a durable, waterproof fabric, you can choose from 4 kid-friendly patterns.

You're All Set! 

When faced with a new school year, kids can feel uneasy or nervous about what lies ahead. Ensuring that they have everything they need helps keep them relaxed, so they won’t feel worried and overwhelmed while adjusting to their new surroundings.

By using this back-to-school essentials list, both parents and children will be set for an exciting year of learning, discovery, and lifelong memories.

For more great suggestions, check out our back-to-school section on our website.