Because the kids aren’t the only ones who need a fresh start in August
Back-to-school season doesn’t just hit in one day. It’s a slow tidal wave of supplies, schedules, new shoes, and maybe a few emotional meltdowns (theirs or ours). For moms, this is the perfect time to hit reset, and these back to school tips are designed to help. Whether your kids are headed to kindergarten or high school, this season is as much about mental prep and planning wins as it is about notebooks and backpacks.
So we pulled together a few mom-approved picks to help this annual reset feel smoother. Deep breath. Fresh planner. Let’s go.
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Kids outgrow everything fast. So August is the moment for basics: fresh jeans, leggings, and tees they’ll reach for every morning.
We keep going back to The Children’s Place for affordable staples, solid uniforms, and those matching sibling outfits that somehow still pass the vibe check. Bonus points for the frequent sitewide sales.
Target also delivers with comfy, school-friendly pieces, from adaptive clothing to licensed graphic tees your kids will insist on wearing four days in a row.
If your calendar already looks like a maze of sports, pickups, and theme days, it might be time to level up your planner game.
Mom Agenda gets it. Their Academic Year planners have separate sections for each kid, plus space for meals, reminders, and your own life too. (Remember that?) And for organizing supplies, snacks, or hair stuff, Dollar Tree bins are still our go-to. They’re $1.25, stack well, and don’t fall apart in two weeks.
What they’ll actually wear
Kids outgrow everything fast. So August is the moment for basics: fresh jeans, leggings, and tees they’ll reach for every morning.
We keep going back to The Children’s Place for affordable staples, solid uniforms, and those matching sibling outfits that somehow still pass the vibe check. Bonus points for the frequent sitewide sales.
Target also delivers with comfy, school-friendly pieces, from adaptive clothing to licensed graphic tees your kids will insist on wearing four days in a row.
Plan like a pro
If your calendar already looks like a maze of sports, pickups, and theme days, it might be time to level up your planner game.
Mom Agenda gets it. Their Academic Year planners have separate sections for each kid, plus space for meals, reminders, and your own life too. (Remember that?) And for organizing supplies, snacks, or hair stuff, Dollar Tree bins are still our go-to. They’re $1.25, stack well, and don’t fall apart in two weeks.
Reset home routines
It’s not just the kids adjusting. Schedules shift, mornings get earlier, and even the family dog notices something’s different. Petco has calming products for pets who struggle with the sudden quiet or the sudden noise. Think chews, sprays, or puzzle toys to keep them occupied. And when you're the one feeling the shift, Earth Mama makes gentle wellness picks like stress support teas or their perennial mom-favorite lotions.Tech that helps, not hinders
From photo printers to study laptops, the right tech can make life easier for them—and for you. If your kids are decorating lockers, dorms, or even just journals, the HP Sprocket is a fun add. It’s compact, ink-free, and prints straight from a phone. And ASUS offers reliable, budget-conscious laptops that get the job done. If this is the year for a tech refresh, start there.Bags that hold it all
Backpacks take a beating, especially when they’re hauling Chromebooks, lunch, and three crumpled permission slips. Samsonite might not be your first pick for kids’ bags, but their styles for older students and parents are surprisingly smart. Think laptop sleeves, water resistance, and actual comfort.Easy fuel for moms
You can’t live on crusts from leftover PB&Js. August is the time to restock easy options that support your own energy, even if breakfast happens in the car. We love keeping a few Suja Organic juices in the fridge, especially their green blends and immunity shots. It’s a small thing, but it’s a mom win when something healthy is actually easy.A gentle reminder
This isn’t just back to school for them. It’s a reset for you too. You don’t need to overhaul your life. Just a few smart swaps and calming rituals can make everything feel more manageable. Ready to dive in? Shop the picks that work for your crew and take this season on with a little more ease.
