back-to-school favorites: thoughtful picks for a joyful start

somehow, the summer always disappears in a blink—one minute we’re barefoot in the backyard, the next we’re hunting for pencil cases and wondering if last year’s backpack can survive one more year. in the middle of the checklists and last-minute shopping runs, i like to sneak in a few small things to make the shift back to school feel special—little touches that add joy to the first day of school and the weeks that follow.

this year, these four favorites are my go-to for adding a bit of whimsy and connection to the everyday school routine.

1. punny notecards for lunchbox love

sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest impact. our set of 20 punny notecards is my secret weapon for brightening a school day. i slip one into my daughter's lunchbox and it's a little moment of connection that she can look forward to each day. whether it’s the first day of school or just a regular tuesday, each card is cheerful, colorful, and perfectly sized for lunchboxes, snack bags, or even tucked inside a pencil case. and they make me smile while I'm packing them, which feels like a win-win.

2. pocket hugs for a bit of comfort of the go

those first few days back can be tough—new classrooms, new routines, and a little extra nervous energy (for them and for us). our animal friend pocket hugs are like a tiny piece of home they can carry all day. with ten adorable animals to choose from—cat, fox, axolotl, dino, and more—it's easy to find the one that feels just right for your little. i like to tuck one into a backpack pocket or a pencil case so it’s there when they need a quick boost of courage or a quiet reminder they’re loved.

3. whimsical washi tape for school supply glow-up

plain notebooks and folders get the job done… but add a strip of bunny-patterned washi tape and suddenly they’re theirs. with ten playful designs in our collection—from tiny beetles to golden-hour flowers—it’s easy to mix, match, and create a set of decorated school supplies that feel personal. it’s such a simple, low-effort back-to-school craft that lets kids add their own flair to the tools they’ll use every day.

4. vinyl stickers for everyday magic

nothing says "these are mine" quite like a sticker. our woodland vinyl stickers and our animal friends sticker sheet are waterproof, durable, and full of charm—perfect for customizing water bottles, notebooks, and even laptops. around here, stickers are basically currency, so i keep a few extras on hand for after-school surprises or to trade with friends. they’re a fun, affordable back-to-school gift idea that brings a little magic to the everyday.

making back-to-school feel like a celebration

the truth is, these little things aren’t just for kids—they’re for us, too. they’re a way to weave joy into the rush of early mornings and after-school chaos. whether it’s a silly lunchbox note, a comforting pocket hug, or a sticker that makes them smile every time they take a sip of water, these thoughtful back-to-school gift ideas help turn routine moments into small celebrations.

here's to a school year full of learning, laughter, and a whole lot of heart—starting from the very first day.