Back to school means an end to the wondrous adventures started back in June. It means a new start and new friends. The trip to buy pencils, books and other supplies is just around the corner. Oh, and don’t forget new clothes! So parents, get your kids — from first-time Kindergarteners to those going off to college — back into the school routine with these useful items.
Don’t let your new freshman go off to college with dirty hands. Yes to Hand Soap by Yes to Carrots is the perfect natural soap to get their hands clean and smelling fresh! We love their cute packaging. Choose from blueberry, coconut lemongrass, cucumber eucalyptus and grapefruit basil. $3.99

Never stop loving a book just because you finished reading it! Litographs knows your love for the classics, so represent your favorite characters in class with the Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Great Gatsby Tees. You can choose your favorite from dozens of books. You have to look up close, but the words of the book’s pages are on the shirt. Your English teacher will give you an A+ for style! $34

Trying to fit all of your kid’s necessities into a backpack is almost impossible. Bixbee’s Signature Backpack collection includes spacious bags with pockets for all the little things. The shoulder straps are even contoured and padded for maximum comfort. We love this blue and orange horizontal pack. Send that little one off in style! $49.99

Get voted “Best Dressed” this year! Haley and the Hound’s Sally Shorts’ bright colors and beautiful design will make you the top candidate for sure. Not to mention, they are a warm weather must have! Your high school gal will love these. $98

Sail out of summer in the cutest and most comfortable clothes! The Anchor on Grass Green Tee, also from Haley and the Hound, is a perfect fit for the start of school! $38

Make homemade lunch tasty and healthy with PB Crave. This peanut butter spread is gluten free and has no high fructose corn syrup. It comes in a variety of delicious flavors sure to hit the spot. Choose from berries to choco. $27.47 for a variety 4 pack

Start your (or your kid’s) day off right with Love Grown Food’s Mighty Flakes! All natural and free of genetically modified ingredients, these products are perfect for the most important meal of the day. You can also find them on Amazon. $12.99

Great in a smoothie, sprinkled on top of breakfast or simply stirred in water, Daily Good Greens from ALOHA are perfect for getting in those extra nutrients and minerals. They contain two servings of fruits and vegetables and are also low-calorie. Fuel up for a big day. Get a 15-pack for $45

Granola is a delicious breakfast favorite. Start your morning with Sweet Home Farms’ carton granola, then grab a resealable pouch for a snack. Both the carton and pouches come in a variety of flavors and are sold at your local grocery store. 1 carton – $8.59; 1 pouch – $4.89

Write on windows, leave a note on the mirror or simply decorate your favorite chalkboard with Chalk Ink Markers! This Austin-based product comes in a range of colors and sizes, making it perfect for any occasion! Get an 8-pack for $39.99

Fall is right around the corner, so it’s time to start jean shopping. For your high schooler or college student, Gypsy Soule jeans will fit any outfit. The designs and patches add a unique touch to each pair! Our faves are the Vogue style because they stretch for all your curves, are dark wash and have a wide bootleg opening so you can roll them up for the boyfriend style if you like. They are sold at stores and boutiques across the state. $100

From waking up in the morning for class, to late nights hanging out with friends, iHome has products perfect for a student’s needs at any time of the day. Eject the powercell and take it on the go so your phone is always fully charged as well! $99.99

There is now a quick-fix for all of the picky eaters out there! Doctor Rach’s KidzSprinkles and KidzShakes help solve every mom’s food problems. Simply shake a little of the tasteless KidzSprinkles on top of any kiddo’s meal and it becomes instantly more nutritious! For an after-school snack, trade ice cream and cookies for a delicious milkshake that has extra nutrients! $19.70 or $44

By Mayson Shelton and Marika Flatt