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Back to School Essentials for Little Kids 2023

Image of a backpack with school supplies in it
Back to School Essentials for Little Kids 2023

I was bombarded with back to school sales when I entered a store on July 5th. It feels like summer just started, yet here I am talking about going back to school! 

This list of back to school essentials is meant to supplement basic needs (clothing, diapering, etc.) and guidance from their school/teachers.

Check out this post for a more comprehensive list of back to school essentials for little kids in daycare.

**This post contains affiliate links. I earn small commissions from clicks that result in qualified purchases at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Backpack with Chest Strap 

When my toddler started preschool, the backpack was an important part of the routine: taking it off and hanging it in the cubby, then packing and donning it at the end of the day. 

While I don't mind carrying, wearing or adjusting the backpack for my only child, a teacher with a class full of kids might not feel the same! 

The chest buckle helps keep the backpack straps securely on your child's shoulders while they’re in transit.

Bentgo Lunch Box

I love that you can keep foods in separate compartments if desired. No concerns about soggy foods! If your little one is only in a half day program, then you may not need the optional ice pack. 

Send in several "safe" foods and a "sometimes" or "never" food for exposure if your child is still learning to like certain foods. 

Hydrapeak Mini Insulated Water Bottle

No insulated backpack pockets necessary with this water bottle! Your little one's drink will stay cold all day, and you won't have to worry about sweating or spilling (as long as the spout is closed). 

Stock up on a few to have in rotation. This water bottle fits in the easily accessible outside pockets of your little one's backpack, as well as in the center console of your vehicle or car seat cupholders. 

A Little Love from Home

Going to school is a big deal, and it can be tough to transition. Grab a set of Slumberkins connection hearts. I love these, because they're tangible - you keep one and send one to school with your kiddo as a reminder that you're connected even when you are apart. 

Add the Slumberkins lunch box notes for words of encouragement in the middle of the day. Slumberkins has positive affirmations, or you can add your own words or drawings. 

Sloth's First Day of School Book

Yet another Slumberkins product, but any book that can prep your little one for what to expect with the start of a new school year will be great. Daniel (Tiger) Goes to School and Llama Llama Misses Mama are also great options. 

Apple Air Tags 

Apple Air Tags are a great investment. You can put one in a waterproof wrist band for some peace of mind. Apple Air Tags are also great to use at theme parks or on vacation in case you get separated from your little one.

Folder with Clear Front Packet 

These folders are great for correspondence between home and school. The transparent front pocket is wonderful if you have a not yet speaking, nonverbal or shy child, or a child with limited vocabulary. 

You can include a sheet with easy to access contact information, as well as helpful tidbits about the child's preferences, likes and dislikes, strengths, etc.

I also love magnetic notepads to send notes to the teachers. I always know I can find them on the refrigerator if need be. 

Label Maker 

Yes, there are tons of super cute labels, but investing in a label maker is much more versatile! I've used these labels on water bottles and they remain adherent despite multiple washes. 

Along with labeling items to go back and forth or remain at school, you can label your home organization bins. 

These are also great for college students who need to label totes for move-in day. The possibilities are endless!

Hand Sanitizer

Hopefully hand washing is part of the daily routine since germs seem synonymous with school. Hand sanitizer is not a substitute for soap and water to guard against infectious illnesses, but it's good for those in between moments when you're not near a sink. 

I like to keep travel size hand sanitizer in the car for my daughter to use before we ride home. This brings me to the final recommendation...

Roadie Snacks

I keep Gerber Puffs Cereal handy so my daughter doesn't get hangry. Any light snack that won't spoil dinner will do. 

Depending on the time and amount your little one eats during the school day, a light snack may be a way to prevent a meltdown from hunger after a long day of learning.

**Bonus Item

Okay, this is NOT an essential item, but it's super cute. Support this military family's small shop and purchase magnets to display your child's artwork. 

Some of the magnets are blank, so you can use your label maker to customize them. 

Summary

I'm sure you get a nice list from your child's school with recommended products for a successful year. I found the items on this list to be helpful additions for my preschooler. Have a great school year, and don't forget to take back to school pictures!


Does your school district go back to school before or after Labor Day?





















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