It's time for the school year to start up again, and no matter how it may look for your kids, they'll be learning again in some way, shape, or form. Because of all the uncertainty in our world, school shopping [1] might look a little different, too, but we're here to help. We asked some POPSUGAR parents what they're buying for their children, and the recommendations did not disappoint.
These nine picks are about as good as it gets, and whether you have a child in kindergarten or middle school, there's something here for every age. Some of these picks are classic like planners and hoodies, while others are a little more current, like breathable face masks [2]. Keep on reading to shop these selections!
LilGadgets Connect+ Pro Kids Premium Volume Limited Wired Headphones
"These LilGadgets Connect+ Pro Kids Premium Volume Limited Wired Headphones [4] ($27) are bright and comfortable to wear. In addition to a quiet space to work, my kids really need headphones to block out noise while they are on their Zoom calls." — Dana Avidan Cohn, style director
The Surf Portable Lap Desk
"This year, we want to have multiple locations for the girls to work. This The Surf Portable Lap Desk [5] ($35) is light enough for my 7-year-old to carry from room to room or even outside if she wants! It's also affordable and comes in many colors." — Lisa Sugar, president
Dated Middle School or High School Student Planner For Academic Year 2020-2021
"With a mix of in-school and remote learning this year, we need to be more organized than ever. I'm hoping this Dated Middle School or High School Student Planner For Academic Year 2020-2021 [6] ($12) will help keep my middle schooler on top of his assignments and make our mornings run a bit smoother when he knows what's on tap for the day." — Rebecca Gruber, VP, Branded Content
Classroom Scheduling Pocket Chart
"Little kids thrive off of routine, and one thing I've learned is that a visible schedule like this Classroom Scheduling Pocket Chart [7] ($28) that we can all see is crucial for getting through the day — especially through tough transitions between, say, screen time and reading. When it's all literally spelled out for them, they're way more likely to move along without a fuss." — Kate Schweitzer, senior editor, Family
UA Sportsmask
"My boys are going to be wearing masks in school for six hours a day, so the masks must be comfortable. This UA Sportsmask [8] ($30) is soft and moisture-wicking and will take my high schooler from the classroom to gym class and back again." — RG
POPSUGAR x Old Navy Collection
"Our girls are excited about wearing more comfortable clothes, and our new POPSUGAR x Old Navy Collection [9] ($10-35) is perfect for them to stock up on jogger and hoodie sets!" — LS
Simple Modern Ascent Water Bottle With Straw Lid
"Water fountains will be closed in my boys' schools this year, so a good water bottle that will keep their drinks cold all day is a necessity. This Simple Modern Ascent Water Bottle With Straw Lid [10] ($21) is large and double insulated, so it should get the job done!" — RG
Montessori Calendar Materials Bundle
"One thing I noticed last year during homeschool was that my kids were losing track of the days. This Montessori Calendar Materials Bundle [11] ($25) is so much fun and something we can do together each day to start the school day." — DAC
Overtime Kids OT Classic Hoodie
"My boys are sports-obsessed and love Overtime's coverage of their favorite athletes. They've been begging for this Overtime Kids OT Classic Hoodie [12] ($48) for a while now, so I'm planning to surprise them for their first day." — RG
Seeker Learning
Whether you're sending your kids back to school or looking to pick up a few new skills yourself, we're all students at Seeker Learning [13]. Whether you're interested in space, tech, or health science, there's something to expand your mind.