Reversible Backpack
Get two backpacks for the price of one! The beauty of My Chooze Packs is that you can reverse the side that gets seen whenever you need a fresh look. So if your kid is in an outer-space mood one day and a polka-dot mood the next, you can make it happen.
To buy: My Chooze Packs, starting at $25
Routine Chart
Getting back into the swing of things isn't always an easy feat after those dog-days of summer. Creating a visual task chart (whether a DIY one or the magnetic, dry-erase board pictured) will help them find their back-to-school rhythm and remember all of the things they need to do before heading out the door in the morning or tucking in for the night.
To buy: Lakeshore Learning, $22
Zoo Lunchies
With 25 adorable animal designs to choose from (each with super cute names like Otis Owl and Eureka Unicorn), the odds are good that your kids will be able to find a lunch box this year that suits their personality. They have the option of a matching backpack, as well.
To Buy: Skip Hop, $15
Kid-Safe Hand Sanitizer
New year, new class, new germs. Keeping little hands clean can be a struggle, so having a portable hand sanitizer handy is a must. Babyganics hand sanitizer is non-allergenic, alcohol-free and doesn't contain any questionable ingredients, like parabens, sulfates, triclosan, fragrance or dyes.
To buy: Target, $3
Homework Organizer
This homework filing system is guaranteed to keep all assignments and papers in one place which will (hopefully) eliminate anything important from getting buried and forgotten. While you can label them however you choose, suggested tabs include "Homework to Do," one for "Forms and Newsletters" and another for "Completed Work."
To buy: Etsy, $30
Cute Kids' Clothes
These kids' clothes are so hip, you'll be wishing they made them in adult sizes. Founded by two moms, Ice Cream Castles is a new children's clothing line that incorporates whimsical, vintage-style prints into each of their designs. Your kids are guaranteed to step into this school year with serious style cred.
To Buy: Ice Cream Castles Clothing, starting at $36
Personalized Planner
A customized planner is a great back-to-school gift for your child while also helping ensure it gets found easily if lost. You can design it however works best for keeping your kiddo on top of his assignments and schedule, whether it be by day, by week or even by the hour.
To buy: Purple Trail, from $45
Responsibility Board
For older kids who have set chores they're responsible for each week, having a "responsibility chart" in the kitchen or a common area where the whole family sees it regularly can be immensely helpful throughout the year. Even better, a board like this tracks how much they earn for each task to teach them money management and practice their math skills.
To buy: Uncommon Goods, $48
Mini Water Bottle Infuser
A fun new water bottle may be all that's needed to give kids extra motivation to hydrate throughout the day. And if your kids ever tire of drinking plain water, try one like this mini flavor-infusing water bottle, allowing you to toss in berries, lemons and limes or even watermelon to give it some added flavor.
To buy: HSN, $10
Reusable Snack Bags
Being greener this school year will be a breeze, thanks to these cute reusable snack and sandwich bags that are made of recycled materials. And no need to worry whether they'll be extra work to clean. The bags are made with a water- and stain-resistant liner for easy cleaning (and are machine-washable, as well).
To Buy: ThriveMarket, $10 for 3 bags
Metallic Notebooks
Your kids will be so dazzled by these notebooks, they won't be able to wait to start taking notes in class. Better yet, personalize it with their initial to give it a more meaningful touch. Whether they choose to use it for school or as a personal journal for the year is up to them—whatever gets them (and keeps them) writing.
To buy: Poppin, $11
Pencil Pouch
Keeping pencils and colored pencils from continually going missing or finding their way into the abyss of a backpack can be a continual challenge. That is, of course, unless they're fastened and contained. This pencil case keeps writing and drawing utensils well-organized and fastened with a mesh pouch on one side for pencils and individual slots for pens on the other.
To buy: Mochi Things, $16
Wobble Chair
No more having to fight with the kids to "sit still" and do their homework. The Wobble Chair has an exercise-ball design, which allows kids to bounce and wiggle around as much as they please while still accomplishing their assignments. Plus, it engages their back and core muscles while they work and offers varying sizes, so it's suitable for any age—from toddlers to teens.
To buy: Amazon, $70
Outfit Organizer
If you want your mornings to be as stress-free as possible, selecting outfits on Sunday to wear for the entire week is the secret. To help, get a closet organizer with compartments for every day of the week. Don't forget to include socks, underwear and any accessories, too.
To buy: One Step Ahead, $30
Family Calendar
Being able to see every family member's events over the course of the month will ensure a smooth-sailing ship throughout the year. Station a dry-erase calendar in the kitchen or entryway and designate a color for each person. Whenever there's uncertainty as to what's going on the following day, you can point your kiddos to it rather than have to re-explain a dozen times. To earn extra credit, use it to meal-plan throughout the month, as well.
To buy: Pottery Barn, $95
