Just when you get into that summer groove, it hits you…it’s almost over and it’s time to start preparing for back to school. While there are days parents are longing for the kids to go back to school, it isn’t without the sadness to say goodbye to another childhood summer. But the school forms are being requested and the back-to-school ads are flying in faster than snack requests. Being more than a store, here at Marley & Moose we are here to make your life a bit easier. We get it; transitions can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help streamline your prep and focus on what truly matters for your child’s success and well-being. Here are the top five things we believe you actually need to get ready for school:
This post was originally published in July 2024 and updated in August 2025 to keep things fresh and helpful!
1– A Durable Backpack
Your kiddo is asking for a backpack of their favorite character or theme. But ask any seasoned parent (or maybe you have already learned this one), that phase will have changed before Thanksgiving break. And there is nothing more frustrating than replacing a backpack before the year is up. It’s a lesson in investing wisely from the start. When it comes to school essentials, a reliable backpack is key. A quality backpack not only carries all the necessary supplies but also supports your child’s physical health by evenly distributing weight on their growing body.
Look for a backpack that is:
- Sturdy: Ensures the backpack can withstand daily wear and tear without falling apart.
- Comfortable: Padded straps help distribute weight evenly and prevent strain on your child’s shoulders.
- Properly Sized: Choose a backpack that fits your child’s frame to avoid discomfort or posture issues.
- Organized: Multiple compartments make it easy to keep school supplies and personal items neat and accessible. Too many compartments will send you on a scavenger hunt each evening, collecting the bits and bobs of their day.
- Water-Resistant: Protects the contents from spills and unexpected weather, keeping everything dry and safe.
2– Quality School Supplies
Do you ever find yourself drawn to all those colorful and trendy school supplies? It’s like they have a magnetic pull! At Marley & Moose, we totally get the allure, but we also believe in focusing on what really matters: quality that lasts.
When it comes to school gear, we’re all about practicality and durability. While specific requirements can vary widely from one school to another—some schools provide comprehensive lists of what to buy, while others supply certain items directly—there are a few essentials that every student can benefit from:
- Notebooks and folders: Essential for keeping everything neat and organized, whether it’s class notes or creative doodles.
- Colored pencils, crayons, and markers: Because every child’s imagination deserves to shine through colorful drawings and imaginative projects.
- Quality scissors and a sturdy ruler: Perfect for those crafty tasks that require precision and creativity.
- Pencils, pens, and erasers: Trusty companions for everyday writing needs, from solving math problems to jotting down ideas.
- A durable pencil case: The secret to keeping all their supplies neatly in one place, no matter how hectic the school day gets.
These supplies cater to various ages or grades, adapting to the needs of different school policies and individual preferences. Investing in higher-quality supplies means they’ll hold up better, endure the daily wear and tear, and ultimately support your child’s success throughout the school year.
Additionally, having a set of these quality supplies at home can continue to support your child’s learning outside the classroom. Whether they’re working on homework, engaging in creative projects, or exploring new interests, having reliable tools on hand fosters an environment where learning can flourish year-round.
3– Comfortable and Practical Clothing
When it comes to school uniforms or dress codes, every school has its own twist, right? But the bottom line is making sure your kiddo feels comfortable and can zip, button, and adjust their own clothes. Save the complicated button jeans for the weekends.
Here are some essentials:
- Weather-Appropriate Gear: Ensure your child has layers for different weather conditions.
- Cozy Jacket: Perfect for those chilly mornings. A good jacket keeps your child warm and comfortable, so they can focus on learning instead of shivering.
- Hat: Essential for keeping the sun at bay during playtime. A hat protects your child’s face and eyes from the sun, making outdoor time more enjoyable and safe.
- Good Pair of Shoes: Comfortable and sturdy shoes are a must for active days. Whether it’s running around the playground, walking to school, or participating in gym class, a solid pair of shoes supports their feet and keeps them going all day long.
- Extra Socks and Shirts: Handy for any spills or unexpected messes. Accidents happen, and having spare socks and shirts in their backpack means your child can stay fresh and comfortable throughout the day. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference in their comfort and confidence.
- First Day of School Outfit: This one’s special! Picking the perfect first day of school outfit can be a fun tradition. Choose something that makes your child feel confident and excited. Maybe it’s their favorite color or has a beloved character on it. Comfort is key, so they feel great all day. Add a little flair with a fun accessory like a headband, bracelet, or cool socks. This outfit sets the tone for the new school year and gives your child a little boost of joy as they step into their new adventure.
Clothing Tips:
Mix-and-Match Pieces: Choose clothes that are easy to pair together for quick and low-stress mornings. Think of simple, versatile items like plain tees and neutral pants that can be combined in different ways. This makes getting dressed a breeze and gives your child the freedom to express their style.
Durable Clothing: Opt for tough fabrics that can handle playground adventures and daily wear. Kids play hard, and their clothes need to keep up. Look for strong seams, durable fabrics, and materials that can withstand frequent washing. This way, your child can focus on having fun without worrying about rips or tears.
Remember, when kids feel comfortable and confident in their clothes, they can focus better and stay active throughout their busy school days.
4– Lunch Gear
A healthy lunch is crucial for keeping your child focused and energized at school. But let’s be real—mornings can be chaotic! Here’s the scoop on making lunchtime prep easier and less stressful.
Look for lunch gear that checks these boxes:
- Insulated: Keeps food fresh and at the right temperature until lunchtime.
- Easy to clean: Because who has time for complicated washing routines?
- Durable and leak-proof: No spills, no mess—just peace of mind.
And as a seasoned mom of four my greatest advice: prep simple, kid-friendly lunches ahead of time! Each Sunday I chop cucumbers, carrots, peppers and grapes and store in the fridge in bento boxes for lunches the week ahead. Then, the night before, we make sandwiches like turkey and cheese or peanut butter and jelly and store them in the fridge. For a nutritious treat, I add a side of apple slices with peanut butter and honey or homemade protein balls made in big batches and stored in the freezer. It’s such a lifesaver on those frantic, busy mornings!
For hydration, pack a reusable water bottle that’s easy for your child to use and leak-resistant. Look for brands like Lifefactory and Stanley that offer durable options suitable for school use. And be sure to sticker it up to make it easy to spot in a sea of water bottles at school.
5– Evening Routine: Setting the Stage for School Success
Getting back into a routine after summer can be tough, but here’s a schedule we swear by in our house to keep school days running smoothly. As a family with two working parents, these tasks sometimes fall to mom, dad, or a sitter, but the routine is consistent. If your kiddo is at an after-school program, you can adjust to what works for you!
Example Schedule
3:30 PM: Kids burst through the door—time to unwind and shake off the school day. This is NOT the time to ask about their day. Instead, create a calming space for a smooth transition from school to home, and time for emotions to smooth and settle.
3:45 PM: Backpack check! We dig into it for any notes, permission slips, or updates from school. We also fish out half-eaten snack bars that got tucked away into a pocket.
4:00 PM: Homework zone is live! Whether it’s at the kitchen table or their favorite study nook, we dive into those assignments before dinner so it’s done and dusted.
5:00 PM: Playtime kicks off or after-school activities begin! While we get dinner prepped, the kids let loose and have some fun—we zip kids to practices and sports events.
6:00 PM: Dinner as a family. Study after study shows that families who eat dinner together consistently have so much to gain, from health to confidence, school success, and lifetime happiness!
7:00 PM: Bath time! Gentle, soothing bath products help our child unwind after a busy day. We add colorful bath toys and bubbles for extra fun!
7:30 PM: Bedtime stories are a must. Snuggled up with their favorite book, we wind down and connect before lights out.
7:45 PM: Stuffies or Dinkums come into play. For our little ones heading to daycare or preschool, a comforting stuffed toy can make all the difference. These plush friends provide emotional security, help with the transition to new environments, and can be a soothing presence during nap times or moments of separation.
8:00 PM: Lights out, sleepyheads. Cozy and calm, we settle in with their favorite snuggle buddy for a restful night’s sleep.
Following this routine not only ensures they get a good night’s sleep but also sets them up for success in school and beyond. It’s all about creating a comforting and consistent evening ritual that supports their learning and well-being.
Bonus– Enhancing Learning Through Play
You know, while school supplies are important, there’s something special about toys that help kids learn outside the classroom, right at home. At Marley & Moose, we take pride in our thoughtfully curated selection of toys designed to foster cognitive development, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Take our wooden toys– they’re not just for stacking; they’re a fantastic way for little ones to develop fine motor skills and engage in imaginative play.
And then there’s our games and puzzles. It’s all about having fun while practicing social-emotional skills such as taking turns and working together.
Oh, and our arts and crafts? Perfect for helping kids unwind while expressing themselves creatively and furthering those focus skills.
Wrap-Up
As you get ready for the new school year, keep these essentials in mind to streamline your preparations and set your child up for success.
For more on back-to-school (including ideas for cutting back on screen time), check out our other post!
At Marley & Moose, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch products that nurture your child’s growth and development. Come visit our store at 520 Mountain Ave, Berthoud, CO 80513, or online, to explore the perfect items for your back-to-school checklist.
Here’s to joyful learning and happy shopping!
