We are just 9 days out from school starting and I feel like my mind is locked on making sure everything is ready to roll for 1st and 4th grade. This is not my first back to school year and over the years I have mastered the things that make mornings and our days easier.
Back-to-School Essentials That Make Life Easier
Lunch box notes and jokes: I used to write them out every day but honestly they prefer these. Liam’s are jokes which he loves and Charlotte’s are usually pics with little phrases easy for her to read.
Custom labels/stamps: My kids leave so much random stuff at school and honestly so many kids have similar items that labeling is a must! Etsy has a ton of cute options for custom labels and stamps.
Reusable snack pouches: I love these to keep snacks protected and that way if they open and spill they are not all over their backpacks.
Amazon Alexa: Great for reminders, asking the weather that day, and setting timers. We have the kids version and it’s pretty locked down but they love it!
Car organizer: I have had this in my car for YEARS and we have books, a few drawing supplies, and keep their snacks and extra waters in it. Just an easy way for them to reach things. Fits right in between them!
Hanging closet organizer: This I have been doing for years and years since way before it became a viral hack. There are 5 slots and on Sundays the kids are responsible for picking out that weeks clothing including underwear and socks and putting it in each cubby. This saves us so much time in the morning because there is no argument or wondering what to wear.
Bento lunch boxes: We have used the Bentgo kind when the kids were in preschool which felt like a good size for that time in life. Now in elementary school I prefer these from Pottery Barn. I also love the planet box ones and the Omie.
Backpacks that actually hold up: We LOVE State backpacks. I think they have the best variety and hold up the longest. We have used others but this is everyones preferred. They are an investment but could last several school years.
Hatch alarm: If you have a kid you are wanting to have a little more independence I think this is a great option. It gradually wakes them up so you don’t have a cranky kid you’re dragging out of bed and they can be the ones waking themselves up in the morning.
Backpack lent ball: I just grabbed these for the kids this year so I haven’t tested them out but I have heard great things. I feel like my kids always have crumbs and dirty in the bottom of their backpack and this is supposed to help that a TON!
Let me know what I need to add to this list! Always looking for more hacks!
