Going back to school can be an exciting milestone, but it often comes with a swirl of nerves, new routines, and plenty of uncertainty, especially for kids. Whether they’re heading into their very first day of kindergarten or stepping into a brand new grade, the transition from summer freedom to school schedules can feel overwhelming. As a parent or caregiver, you want to ease their worries and remind them that you’re right there cheering them on. While you can’t completely take away those first day jitters, you can turn the moment into something positive and fun with thoughtful back-to-school gifts for kids.
10 Best Back-to-School Gifts for Kids
These 10 best back-to-school gifts for kids put the “fun” in “functional.”
1. Water Bottle
Back-to-school means busy days, and staying hydrated is a must, especially for kiddos on the go. The YETI 26 oz Water Bottle with Chug Cap is the perfect gift for students who need a durable, leakproof option that keeps drinks cold all day long. Its ultra-strong stainless steel construction can handle the drops and dings of school life, while the Chug Cap makes it easy to take quick sips between classes or at lunch. Plus, it fits comfortably in most backpack side pockets. If you’re looking for a back-to-school gift that’s both practical and built to last, this YETI bottle is a smart pick.
2. First Day of School Sign
Taking photos of your pupil with this First Day of School Sign is a fun tradition they’ll look forward to each year. All you have to do is fill in a few boxes with a dry-erase marker, like their grade, their hobbies, and even their favorite food! It even comes pre-personalized with their name at the top, making it a more personalized gift among the best back-to-school gifts for kids.
3. Contixo Android Tablet
For tech-savvy kids, getting a tablet as a back-to-school gift can be really exciting. Aas a parent, you’re probably cautious about giving them unrestricted access to apps and downloads. Well, the Contixo Android Tablet is a little different. It comes preloaded with 80 Disney eBooks and tons of educational games and apps. Plus, there are easy-to-use parental controls so you can keep tabs on their activities.3,
4. Personalized Water Bottle
Personalized items not only feel special but also make it easier for students to keep track of their belongings. Take this Personalized Water Bottle, for example. Besides adding your kiddo’s name, you can also customize the bottle color, font color, and shadow color. And since the bottle is leak-proof, shatter-resistant, and double-insulated, it’ll stay with them for years to come.
5. Piggy Bank
Kids are never too young to start forming smart money-saving habits! With this Piggy Bank, they can start budgeting and saving up for something in the future. Whether it’s a new toy or a pair of trendy shoes, saving money has never been more fun. And because it looks like a soft plushy, it makes counting and math a lot more playful!
6. Bluey 11-Piece Back-To-School Stationary Set
Give the Bluey fan in your life a memorable gift they’ll treasure all school year long! This stationery set comes with everything they need on their first day. They’ll get folders, notebooks, pencils, notepads, rulers, erasers, and a pencil pouch. Of course, everything is Bluey themed, so they can bring their favorite character with them from classroom to classroom!
7. L.L.Bean Original Book Pack
There’s a reason this award-winning backpack is one of the best back-to-school gifts for kids! It’s colorful, comfy, and built to last throughout their entire time at school. The main storage compartment can easily fit all their books and snacks, while the front and side pockets and panels keep smaller items organized.
8. Jlab Jbuddies Studio Headphones
These headphones will make riding the bus and long recesses way more fun for your little one. They’re noise isolating, but come with built-in volume regulators to ensure that they’re never listening to music too loudly. And with plush memory foam cushions, they’ll want to wear them all day, so be ready to set some listening time limits!
9. Crocs
Crocs aren’t just comfy – they’re also some of the hottest footwear for back-to-school! Whether they’re in the classroom or hanging on the playground, these lightweight and ventilated clogs will ensure they’re always supported. You can also throw in a few Jibbitz Charms that they can attach to the holes on the shoes. Or you can let your child collect them throughout the school year as a fun reward for good grades and behavior!
10. Expandable Lunchbox
Never worry about spoiled food again with this well-insulated Expandable Lunch Box. Kids will love having cold snacks and drinks, while parents will love that it’s non-toxic (that means no lead, phthalates, PVC, or BPA). And when you’re packing an extra-large lunch, the box can unzip to provide two more inches of space.
11. Personalized Folders
For a fun but budget-friendly back-to-school gift for kids, look no further than these personalized folders. They’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your child’s face every time they open their bag – even if they contain homework or test scores! You can choose the color scheme, name, and even what it says on the inside flaps. If you’re looking for the whole set, you can get the same style printed on notebooks, cups, and canvas tote bags.
Back-to-School Gifts for Kids – What to Look For in a Great Gift
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing back-to-school gifts for kids. Not only should the back-to-school gifts for kids be fun, but they should also be useful when they’re in the classroom. Back-to-school gifts for kids that support them creatively and academically may just be the motivation they need to start the new school year on the right foot! Here are other factors to consider when shopping for the perfect gift:
- Personalization: Kids love having their name or initials on their personal items! Plus, no more mix-ups at schools when it comes to lost and found.
- Favorite color: Try to find a gift that comes in your child’s favorite color or pattern.
- Personal interests: Look for age-appropriate gifts that cater to your kid’s personal interests or hobbies.
- School rule abiding: Make sure to double-check your school’s policies, as there may be restrictions on certain tech items or supplies.
Giving back-to-school gifts for kids is a simple yet meaningful way to show support, encouragement, and excitement for what lies ahead. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. Even a small gesture, like something useful, personal, or just plain cool, can help them walk into the classroom with a smile on their face and a little more confidence in their step. Giving back-to-school gifts for kids also a great tradition to start, helping kids associate the school year with positivity rather than pressure.
With so many options out there, it can be tricky to find back-to-school gifts for kids that feel special but also serves a purpose. From trendy gear that makes them feel stylish and confident, to practical items they’ll use every day, we’ll share what to keep in mind when shopping for back-to-school gifts for kids and give you a few fun and functional ideas that students are excited about this school season. Whether your child is a book lover, a budding athlete, a fashion-forward teen, or just figuring out their style, there’s something here to make their return to school feel extra special.
Buying the Best Back-to-School Gifts for Kids
As your child prepares for the new year, giving them one of these back-to-school gifts for kids can give them something to look forward to. It is also a great way to make the transition from summer to school a whole lot easier. But at the end of the day, the best back-to-school gifts for kids is having support and love from you! Children grow up so fast, so it’s important to make these little moments count!
