Back to school has always been “a thing.” I have to say it’s really the one time of year that I feel has always been crazy, even before Pinterest and social media. I remember deading it as a tomboy and being dragged to the local Jamesway (yes, remember that!?) and then the actual mall over an hour away to hit up JC Penney for new outfits and UGH – dresses. Gag.
However, there were no designer pencils, freezable lunch bags or tags to mark your clothes. You had to throw a couple of right hooks if the tougher girl in school tried to claim your sweatshirt. I don’t think you grew up in the 80s/90s without at least one good fistfight.
Anyways, times a change. And once again, we have the BEST picks – yes, they are from me, so they are by far the best of the best out there – for back to school.
1. Mabels Labels
Mabel’s Labels will probably always be one of my faves until Max graduates – post-grad. They just get cooler and cooler and prettier, too (for mom!). The stickers save our life at a private school where EVERYONE has the same sweater. EVEN BETTER? They have brought you the coveted stamp. No more can these slick second graders peel off your stickers and claim your overpriced cardigan. You win for the small price of:
Where to get: Buy and customize online here.
2. Sperry
You need a good pair of shoes, you just do. Even in private where we have to wear those ugly black clogs, you need to have a little color in your life and style. Max loves to come home and jump into these Sperry Striper II LTT when we cruise the streets of NYC after school. They’ve also proven to be great summer casual walking shoes that look good just about anywhere. Also pictured here is Osh Kosh B’Gosh.
Where to get: You can snag them online here as well as Nordstroms.
3. PackIt
Again, we’ve moved past the days of soggy cheese sticks and warm yogurt. Gag again. PackIt has this super amazing idea of throwing the whole lunch bag in the freezer so it’s a mini-fridge` for lunch the next day – and it actually keeps things cold till it’s time to eat! Read more about why I love it here.
Where to get: Buy online, here.
4. Welly
There are going to be boo-boos. Just yesterday Max somehow snagged his toe on the floor and was crying and bleeding everywhere – especially when I had to pull out the peroxide. Cool bandages make this all better. And these Welly “super hero” packs are the coolest new ones on the block. They also make a great on-the-go emergency pack that is great for the car and surprise cuts and bruises.
Where to get: Target!
5. TwelveLittle
Bookbags are the obvious new purchase. And you want something that is equal parts awesome, durable and has nooks and crannies for all their things. TwelveLittle is perfect for this. They have cute designs for both boys and girls – and young kids and “cool” kids.
Where to get: Online, here.
6. OshKosh B’Gosh
OshKosh B’Gosh hasn’t gone out of style since we were kids – and they’re cooler than ever. They have great trendy pieces for both boys and girls (and some I want in my size) – plus they’re super affordable. So you can still look back-t0-school cool on a budget. Also pictured here is the Sperry shoe above.
Where to get: Online and/or find a store, here.
7. Health-ade kombucha minis
I love these so had to toss in here too. Not only are these great for school lunches, but they’re also great for you, too! We all love kombucha but let’s be honest, sometimes the bottles are too big. There’s been many times I haven’t finished it and for the price, it’s almost like you feel obligated to chug it. NO MORE! Health-Ade has heard our oversized woes and made minis! These pack great for school lunch, road trips, and sipping after hot yoga.
Where to get: Find a store, here.
8. Super Mario Maker 2
Yes, it’s a video game. But you can’t be all work and no play this fall. Having a Nintendo-obsessed child in the house means we were already keeping Super Mario Maker 2 on the radar, but I love it because it’s really more about building. You can literally create your own worlds and use ALL the components for all the worlds – from Goombas to Bowsers to clouds to secret tunnels! So you don’t have to feel bad about them having a little screentime since they’re still learning (and coding!) – plus, the Nintendo parent app allows you to now limit the time, anyways!
Where to get it: Most retailers including Game Stop and Target.
*Disclosure: some items including Nintendo’s Super Mario Maker 2 were gifted to us to facilitate this guide. Thanks again for supporting Football Food and Motherhood, and remember, all opinions are always my own!
