Back to School Shopping Guide: 5 Fun Items for a New School Year

Back to school have never been my favorite three words (I'm a Summer girl, through and through), but there is still a (small) part of me that looks forward to a new school year. It's an opportunity to start again; and as a former teacher and current mom, I really understand the need for new beginnings. Yet I also know parents and caregivers get inundated with supply lists each year, so I've created something a little different. Here's a Back to School Shopping Guide that's filled with fun items to help your year run a little smoother (or just offer up some smiles). Read on to see what I found and why I think you'll want to add them to your list. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to Amazon. I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Some toys and gift suggestions were sent to me as samples, but I promise you I wouldn't feature items in my guide if I didn't totally love them myself! So rest assured, these items all have The Jersey Momma stamp of approval.

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For the Anxious Student

What makes a Bumpas perfect for an anxious kiddo? They're not just cute, they're also weighted, so it really feels like they're giving you a comforting hug. They come in different colors with different names/personalities, too. Their new line of Mushies Stretch and Pop have extra long arms and legs with retractable POP Tubes enclosed. These tubes expand up to 18" long for extra big hugs! POP Tubes are bendable, snappable toys that make a popping sound when stretched and compressed. These are great for kids with sensory needs, and each hand and foot has Velcro, too, allowing you to connect and wear your Mushie on the go. Find Bumpas on Amazon or on the Bumpas website.

For the Creative Student

Worlds Smallest are not just small and cute- they actually work. So these items from their You Create line are actually working art products. Worlds Smallest Artist Drawing Kit comes in a mini travel kit with colored pencils, sharpener, eraser, pad and easel. The Worlds Smallest Spin Art kit comes with its own spinner (no batteries required!), ink tubes and paper. And the Worlds Smallest Bead Kit contains miniature beads and supplies for making your own jewelry bracelets. These fit in the palm of your hand or a pocket and will surely make anyone smile, even adults. Recommended for ages 6 and up. And they're under $10 each!

For the Retro Student

There are a million blind boxes on the market but TLS Toys Rainbow Brite and Strawberry Shortcake minis are a throwback to 80's childhood! These look ADORABLE on a desktop or work area.

TLS minis will win the heart of any college student heading back to campus this Fall, or any student (or adult) who needs a cheerful companion while they work. You can find them at Five Below or on Amazon. Recommended for ages 3 and up.

For the Athlete

This deodorant from Dr. Squatch is aluminum-free and creatively fun for kids. Minecraft fans will appreciate the Diamond Sticc (in fact, people appreciate it so much that it keeps selling out, so get it while you can). Check out their Star Wars line for out-of-this-world self-care and Ninja Turtles for some cowabunga cleanse. Available at DrSquatch.com. 

For Mommy's Sweethearts (Girls)

I recently discovered Melinda Maria jewelry, and it's my new go-to when I need a beautiful gift for someone (or myself! Ha!). I know jewelry isn't your typical go-to for a Back to School guide, but I couldn't resist mentioning that their sweet 15" You Have My Heart necklace is a really special way to remind someone that you're always with them (especially nice for teenagers). And if you use my special discount code, DEBBIE, you can get 10% off your entire order (making this necklace less than $50). It's engraveable and also comes in silver. If you want more of a bold look, there's also You Have My Heart XL necklace available here. 

Have a great school year, everyone! 

And be sure to check out last year's 

Back to School Guide here.