We blinked and summer is almost over — how the h*ll did that happen?! It seems like just yesterday it was May and the weather was getting warmer and we were making plans for summer vacation. Now kids are back from summer camp, the sun is starting to set a little earlier, and back-to-school season is upon us.
Whether your kids start school in August or September (or already started in July!), it’s essential to be prepared for the academic year. Of course, that doesn’t just mean buying folders and glue sticks. There are a lot of other essentials we have to buy as we head into the fall — that’s where our Editor’s Picks come in!
If you’re looking for back-to-school must-haves, we’ve got you covered, but here are some great extras for moms, dads, toddlers, and babies.
Hanna Andersson Amber Wood Mommy & Me Pajamas
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Hanna Andersson
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Reef Water Vista Sandals
Just because summer is coming to a close, it doesn’t mean that the weather is getting colder just yet. Sandals are still our go-to footwear choice this month, and these water-friendly sandals are perfect for busy school days. These sandals are incredibly comfortable, easy to clean, cute enough for brunch, and they even have matching options for little ones.
Backbone Pro
Have a kiddo (or partner) who loves playing games on their phone or tablet? Backbone Pro enhances their gameplay experience, with full-sized ALPS joysticks and rear buttons for more precision and freedom. Backbone Pro connects to a phone, tablet, PC, or smart TV for seamless transition between devices. Simply connect the Backbone Pro to your device and play games like Fortnite and Roblox like never before.
Amara Smoothie Melts
Starting at
$39.99
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Amara Organic Foods
Back-to-school season means we’re always on-the-go, so it’s important to have easy prepackaged snacks on hand for toddlers and kids. Amara’s Smoothie Melts are a favorite among little ones because they taste great (and parents love them because they have no added sugar, no artificial colors, and no artificial flavors). The Sweet Strawberry Organic Fruit Bites look like strawberries and are made with just a few ingredients: organic apple, organic coconut milk, organic strawberry, organic black carrot juice, and organic lemon juice.
Ms. Rachel Spin Along Learning Wheel
$29.99
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Ms. Rachel
If you have a little one who loves Ms. Rachel, but you want them to get to enjoy her content without screen time, her toys are an amazing alternative. The Spin Along Learning Wheel has three learning modes: animal sounds, colors, and Ms. Rachel’s favorite songs. Toddlers can spin the wheel to reveal the different learning modes, and they can learn and engage with their favorite headband-wearing music teacher.
Playhouse MD Baby Basic Bundle
$49.99
from
Playhouse MD
Nasal bulbs, nasal aspirators, and medicine syringes are essential when you have a baby or toddler, but it’s safe to say that kids don’t exactly enjoy using these devices… Until now. Playhouse MD combines the necessity of baby healthcare products and the fun of toys to turn tough care moments into playful experiences. This bundle comes with a Narwhal Light-Up Nasal Bulb, an Elephant Light-Up Nasal Aspirator (with 10 disposable filters) and a Rocket Medicine Dispenser (with a removable pacifier attachment and two syringe sizes). Designed by doctors, these products are effective and hygienic, and they provide a fun solution for sick/stuffy little ones.
Yoto Player
Looking for a screen-free audio player for your kids? The Yoto Player gives kids a screen-free, camera-free, microphone-free, ad-free experience with stories, music, and more. It’s perfect for kids’ rooms with a light, clock, room thermometer, and bluetooth connection. With hundreds of cards — from Frozen, to Winnie the Pooh, to Raffi, to the Spice Girls — kids can go on fun screen-free adventures whenever they want.