The change of routine that back to school brings can be welcomed, but it also can feel overwhelming and like a time of excess. I created a guide of the few things I’m using to make my home and mind ready to take on the new school year. All of these picks are things that help make me feel more organized, bring in some newness and create excitement - I hope it does the same for you too.

  1. Bentgo Kids Lunch Box $29

These Bentgo lunchboxes are our go-to. We’ve tested several versions and these reign supreme. They’re leak-proof, easy to clean (insert is dishwasher safe!) and are easy to open for little hands. If you want to avoid extra ice packs - we also love the Bentgo Chill.

2. Bentgo Ice Packs - $10

Let’s acknowledge it - ice packs are a pain. These are slim, and easy to fit inside the lunchbox and your freezer without taking up much space.

3. Hydroflask 12oz Water Bottle - $29

This sucker is indestructible - it can be dropped, drop kicked and it still does it’s job. Perfect for daycare to the playground and beyond.

4. Stasher Bags - $7

We were gifted a bundle of Stasher bags and they’ve become a staple for all kinds of food storage - lunches, snacks, freezer storage you name it. They’re easy for little hands to open and wash up so well by hand or in the dishwasher.

5. Drop Zone Organization - $60

This Mackapar coat rack from IKEA is the ideal drop zone solution for small spaces. We recently installed two in our hall closet and couldn’t be happier. The integrated (but adjustable!) hooks provide lots of options to make this work well for the whole family.

6. Clothing Stamp - $23

We’ve used this stamp for a few years now and it makes labeling extra clothes/other items a breeze - we’ve liked using their ‘Design 5’ in the small size.

This Big Picture calendar has been a GAME CHANGER in our house. Its large format allows you to see the whole year at once, easily see the weekends together and makes planning so much easier. We mounted ours behind a piece of acrylic and use wet erase markers so that we can easily change plans! Although last on the guide, this is my top pick!