Whether you’re shopping for a cutie destined for Pre-K or a college-bound kiddo, we’ve found the most fun, practical and pretty gifts to make back to school a blast
We’re halfway through summer, and though may be hard to believe in this heat, it’ll be school supply season before you know it. Get a jump on some of the coolest, cutest and most clever gear to buy your kids, whether they’re on their way to Pre-K or headed for their senior year of college. From the most adorable sneakers to kick off a new school year to the genius cupholder organizers that will spare you the early morning “I can’t find my keys” panic, we’ve found some of the most fun items (educational and beyond) to ensure a great year ahead for your student.
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Skechers Garage Sneakers
If you want to be a toddler’s favorite person forever, you’ll get him or her these super-cool Skechers sneakers with a garage door that lifts to reveal a car inside.
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Elmer’s Color ‘N Glitz Glue Sticks
Your preschooler is going to be smearing the glue sticks everywhere anyway. Why not pick a fun (washable!) one with glitter in it?
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Yoto Mini Player
Engaging and screen-free fun that’s also educational? There’s a reason so many parents consider their Yoto Mini a “don’t leave home without it” necessity. Play audiobooks, BrainBots cards or learn a language.
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Bits & Bows Crewneck Tee
Ace that “first day of school” photo without needing to frantically fish for letters for your letter board the morning of.
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Minecraft x Herschel Backpack
For the Minecraft-obsessed kiddo in your life, perennial favorite accessory brand Herschel has a cool new collab that includes backpacks, pencil cases and lunchboxes.
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Lalo ‘Lil Dipper’ Snack Box
Got a child who won’t eat anything not slathered in ranch or dipped in hummus? This clever divided (and dishwasher safe) snack box ensures the veggies won’t come back home soggy and unloved at the end of the day.
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Camp Snap Digital Camera
Is your kid dying to capture all the fun with her friends, but you’re still a holdout on giving her a phone? This digital camera will allow her to get all the silliness on “film” to giggle over later.
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Uniball ‘Elle’ Pen Set
Whether a pom-pom topped pen evokes Cher Horowitz or Elle Woods to you, it’s sure to make writing in cursive an Elle of a lot more fun.
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Scarlet Period Kit
Popping this period kit into her backpack ensures she’s prepared and confident should any surprises arise while at school or sports.
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LoveShackFancy x Target Phone Wallet
Gen Alpha loves LoveShackFancy. This cute bow-bedecked adhesive wallet is a fun way to bring a little flair (and organization) to their ever-present phone.
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The Flat Lay Co. Organizer
For the girl on the go who’s always losing her (Air Pods, lip gloss, car keys) this organizer fits into a cup holder (genius!) then easily clips on to any bag.
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Sardines Sticky Notes
To jot a sentiment that is sure to make them smile — even in the midst of a trying finals week — try these silly fish-shaped sticky notes.
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Kikkerland Earbud Cleaning Kit
First step towards independence: Taking good care of your investment items. Leave this for them with no comment and see what happens.
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Papier School Year Planner
Studies show that writing things down makes them much easier to retain. Aid in that endeavor by providing this pretty and personalizable school year planner to help keep track of assignments, team commitments and more.
$36 Buy Now for $42
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‘How to Be a Grown Up’ Book
Once your college-bound kid studies this, can they report back and let us know the essentials?
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Nori Iron
One thing that may not be covered in the book (but is an essential for looking presentable at work or on dates): Keeping your clothes in good condition. We don’t expect your 19-year-old to get excited about an ironing board, but we bet he would appreciate this easy-to-use steam iron to press shirts and khakis without too much trouble.
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Urban Outfitters Storage Pocket
Those clear plastic shoe hangers are useful, but unattractive. Help organize a short-on-space dorm room in style with this 9-pocket organizer embroidered with some cute and cheeky sayings.
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Bose Ear Buds
Whether they need motivation to go for a walk or the ability to drown out a noisy roommate, any college student will appreciate these well-rated noise-cancelling headphones with excellent sound quality.
Read the original article on People