Your little one can bring a friend to school every day with My First Pac Pac! This adorable backpack is ready to make learning fun. Padded compartments have room for lots of stuff like art supplies, clothes, and snacks! There’s even an insulated cubby to keep foods fresh.  My First Pac Pac, is an adjustable backpack that can be made taller or smaller for children 3+.

I received one and I love how there is so much room and the insulated cubby is the best!

They can be found at https://miniware.com/collections/childrens-backpacks-bags

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this back- to- school featured post. Images were also provided.

Preschoolers and kindergarteners will head back to school in style with Kiddietotes’ adorable backpacks. These stylish backpacks have plenty of room and pockets inside to keep your child packed and ready to go on any adventure. The backpacks have a waterproof hardshell that are made with earth-friendly materials that are PVC- and BPA-free. Kids will be excited to pack their own bags! In cute themes like Ladybug, Rocket, Racecar and more!

These are so adorable! I received the ladybug one and it is super cute and it has so much room in it! It really is waterproof and I love that it is made with earth-friendly materials.

Available at https://kiddietotes.com/backpacks/ and Amazon.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this back-to-school featured post. Images were also provided.

Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery has been baking muffins, cupcakes, cakes, and more since our founding in 2005. Our mission is simple: bake great-tasting treats everyone can enjoy together.​ Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, an after-school snack, dessert, or a party, our baked goods bring people together, no matter their dietary needs.​ Take a bite – you won’t believe it’s gluten-free! I had the opportunity to try the Yellow Single Layer Cake (pictured above) and I was very impressed! It was delicious and I really loved the Vanilla Buttercream frosting! It was sweet but not too sweet and the cake was very moist! It is made with all natural, non-GMO ingredients in peanut-free,  nut-free and baked in a gluten-free facility.

It is also available in Chocolate! The Chocolate Single Layer Cake with Chocolate Buttercream: A single-layer moist, rich dark chocolate gluten-free cake covered in real chocolate buttercream icing with a piped trim and topped with chocolate decorations. Made with all natural, non-GMO ingredients in peanut-free, nut-free and baked in a gluten-free facility. I bet this one is delicious too!

Their cakes are sold at stores across the country. Visit https://antoninasglutenfreebakery.com/locator/ to find a store near you. I found them at my local Ralph’s in Torrance.

Self Disclosure: I had the opportunity to try one of the cakes for free to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

These backpack clips are the perfect accessory to bring a vibrant touch of nostalgia and fun, or even a back-to-school bestie into your little one’s life. They are super cute and I think all young children will absolutely love them! They are also available in Strawberry Shortcake.

Backpack Clips – Rainbow Brite 

• Description: These Rainbow Brite 4″ tall Mini Plushies with adorable backpack clips. Collect all 4!
• Available at Amazon, Five Below, Meijer, Big Bad Toy Store, Hot Topic
• MSRP: $6.99
• Age: 3+
  
  

Backpack Clips – Strawberry Shortcake 

• Description: The Strawberry Shortcake 4″ tall sweet scented Mini Plushies with backpack clips. Collect all 4!
• Available at Amazon, Five Below, Meijer, Big Bad Toy Store, Hot Topic
• MSRP: $6.99
• Age: 3+

• Description: Introducing Absofruitly! Strawberry Fruit Snacks – the new fruit snack that’s made from 98% real fruit and 100% simple ingredients. Enjoy a delightfully soft and chewy texture that kids love! 100% simple ingredients mean each piece is made with NO artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners, and no gelatin. An authentically healthy and delicious fruit snack. Absofruitly! Fruit Snacks have a delicious flavor with a super soft texture so they’re fun for kids to eat. Kids can’t help but enjoy the fruity goodness in each bite!! Strawberry Fruit Snacks, a big enough snack to satisfy everyone’s cravings! Perfect for packing school lunches, party favors, taking on-the-go, or sharing with friends and family. Fruit Snacks are shelf-stable and long-lasting. Certified Kosher and plant-based so everyone can enjoy it.
• Retailer Availability: Amazon
• Age: 4+

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school post. Images and information were also provided.

Out of everything that a new parent can register for and services that they can book online, sleep is one of those elusive wishes that can be hard to come by in the first few months of a newborn’s life. An emerging field that’s changing how we approach rest and recovery is an audio-haptic system, tailored for sound therapy. In simple terms, this is a new technology that uses targeted, sensory-driven experiences to improve quality of sleep. With audio haptics, what you hear transforms into a physical sensation you can actually feel, syncing your body and mind for a deeper, more restorative sleep.

Soothing Vibrations Are Not Just for Bassinets

Soothing vibrations in baby bouncer seats and bassinets are not new and many parents swear by them.  This is a bit different in that it is an upgrade to the white noise machine you might already use. According to Sleep Doctor, 52% of surveyed adults say they rely on background noise to sleep. While this technology was initially developed to amplify movie and TV experiences, more parents are discovering its potential to ease tension and promote better rest during those precious moments when both parent and child can sleep.

From Phone Vibrations to Sleep Salvation

Remember when your phone started buzzing every time you tapped the screen, making it feel like you were pressing a real button? That was haptics in its early days. Audio-haptic technology has come a long way since then. Today, it’s about improving how we feel, both mentally and physically, by tapping into our body’s natural responses. Haptic wellness devices are using vibrations to relax us, reduce stress, and even help us fall asleep faster. For sleep-deprived parents, this could be a total game-changer.

Tech-Infused Comfort as a Sleep Upgrade

For sleep-deprived parents, every minute of rest feels like winning the lottery. Companies like GoodVibeSleep are taking it to the next level. Their latest mattress and adjustable base bundle is designed to gives new parents the ultimate sleep experience, with built-in speakers and subwoofers that turn your bed into a surround-sound cocoon of relaxation.

But it’s not just about the tech. The mattress is made from eco-friendly, hybrid memory foam, so it’s soft, supportive, and guilt-free. After a long day of chasing kids and putting out fires (literally or figuratively), you can wind down with three different massage settings to melt away muscle tension. Need even more? The base has preset positions like Zero Gravity and Anti-Snore to boost circulation or keep things quiet for a change. Plus, you can personalize the vibe with RGB lighting to match your mood.

Haptics Are Transforming Stress Relief and Sleep for Exhausted Parents

For sleep-deprived parents, managing stress and catching a break seem like pipe dreams. But haptic technology is changing the game, offering a new way to relax that goes beyond the usual breathing exercises or bubble baths. By sending subtle, rhythmic vibrations to the body, haptics directly communicates with the nervous system, helping to calm stress responses on a physical level. These vibrations stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system—your body’s chill-out switch—which can lower cortisol (a.k.a. the stress hormone) and promote emotional balance. More and more parents are turning to these devices to ease anxiety and get some much-needed calm, all through the power of touch.

And when it comes to sleep—every parent’s holy grail—haptics is proving to be a serious game-changer. Stress and overstimulation are notorious for disrupting sleep, but gentle vibrations can help the body unwind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Instead of popping melatonin or scrolling through a million sleep apps, haptics taps into your body’s natural ability to relax.

September is Baby Safety Month, and if there’s one thing parents can’t compromise on, it’s car seat safety. Whether you’re a first-time parent still trying to figure out how to buckle in that tiny newborn or a seasoned pro who’s been through more car seats than you can count, we all know that keeping our kids safe on the road is a top priority. This is the perfect time to understand what really matters when choosing the right car seat so that our kiddos are snug and secure every time we hit the road. 

Choosing Your Ideal Infant Car Seat

Selecting the perfect infant car seat can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with all the options out there. But the key to finding your ideal seat is considering your lifestyle, the size of your car, and your family’s specific needs. Are you constantly on the go, needing a seat that’s easy to move from car to stroller? Or do you prioritize long-term use, looking for a car seat that can grow with your child? Whatever your situation, there are features designed to make your life easier and your baby’s ride more comfortable.

When shopping for an infant car seat, look for features that align with how you’ll be using it. Easy installation is a must for parents who frequently switch the car seat between vehicles, especially when grandparents are helping out with pick-ups and drop-offs. An adjustable headrest height is perfect for growing babies, ensuring they’re always properly supported. If convenience is key, a seat that rotates can be a game-changer, making it simpler to get your baby in and out of the car. 

For parents who love to multitask, consider a car seat that docks directly into your stroller, allowing you to seamlessly transition from driving to walking with ease. Comfort is crucial, too, so opt for soft, breathable fabrics and a soft carrier handle for those moments when you’re carrying the seat. A UV sunshade is a bonus for those sunny days, and a modular base that works with both infant and toddler car seats ensures that your investment lasts as your child grows. 

Understanding Government Regulations for Baby Safety

When it comes to keeping your baby safe on the road, understanding and adhering to government regulations is essential. Before you select an infant car seat, make sure it meets and exceeds all safety standards set by key organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ASTM International, and the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). These regulations are designed to ensure that every car seat on the market provides maximum protection in the event of an accident. Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the fabrics and materials used in the car seat. Look for seats that have been tested and certified by Oeko-Tex® and the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) to ensure they are free from harmful levels of toxic substances. 

Orbit Baby G5: A Car Seat That Puts Parents and Babies First

The Orbit Baby G5 is designed to make every journey with your little one both safe and comfortable, offering thoughtful features that cater to both baby and parent. Ideal for infants weighing 4-30 pounds and measuring 17-32 inches, this car seat includes an infant insert to keep even the tiniest passengers snug and secure.

One of the standout features of the Orbit Baby G5 is its innovative docking and rotating mechanism. This design allows the seat to rotate into position, saving parents from unnecessary back strain—a game-changer when you’re constantly moving between the car and stroller. Speaking of strollers, the G5 is fully compatible with all Orbit Baby strollers, making it a breeze to transition from car to foot, no matter where your day takes you.

The G5 is also built with safety at its core. Its deep cradle design offers superior side-impact protection, while the adjustable headrest height ensures your baby is always properly supported as they grow. The durable 5-point harness keeps your little one securely in place, and magnetic buckle holders make getting them in and out of the seat hassle-free. Plus, for parents who travel frequently, the off-base car seat installation feature adds a layer of convenience and enhanced safety.

Safety Features You Might Not Think About

When you’re shopping for a luxury car seat, some of the most valuable safety features might not stand out at first glance. The Merino Wool Infant Car Seat in the Orbit Baby G5 is a perfect example. The Merino wool fabric naturally regulates your baby’s temperature, keeping them comfortable year-round. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for babies with sensitive skin. Plus, the eco-friendly, non-toxic materials are free from flame retardants, ensuring your baby is surrounded by only the safest materials. It’s a blend of luxury and safety that goes beyond the obvious.

Don’t Forget to Register Your Car Seat

Before you hit the road, there’s one final step you can’t skip—registering your car seat. Car seats can be recalled for safety reasons, and registering yours ensures that you’ll be notified if this ever happens. It’s a quick and easy process that could make all the difference in keeping your baby safe. You can call the manufacturer’s customer service line, which is listed on your car seat labels, or visit the manufacturer’s website to register. It’s a simple step that offers peace of mind every time you buckle up.

I feel that summer just zoomed by! But, it’s almost September and many schools start soon (and some have already started). Here are some of my favorite items for this time of year!

Recently named one of Parents Magazine’s “Best Snacks For Kids,” Mavericks is quickly becoming a household name for families seeking high quality, all natural, non-GMO options. Known for their plant-based, bolt shaped cookies in crave-worthy flavors like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate, Mavericks is once again shaking up the snack aisle with the launch of their brand-new Sandwich Crackers, exclusively hitting Whole Foods Market stores nationwide this summer. These are really good! I love the peanut butter ones!

They are available at Whole Foods Market stores in a “sharing size” 7 oz. box for $5.99 and convenient, on-the-go 36g snack packs, which come in a box for $7.99. To learn more visit https://mavericksnacks.com/

PowKids

Price: $39.99

Website: www.PowKidsHealth.com

Raising powerful kids! Formulated by a Registered Dietitian and Chemist, PowKids was designed specifically for children to help kids get the nutrients they need for their growing bodies, according to their age. Available in two varieties, including Clear Protein in Passionberry and Chocolate, each protein powder is made with organic ingredients, boasts 18g grass fed whey protein, and contains no added sugar.  In addition, each protein powder contains added choline to foster brain development – perfect for keeping your kids fueled during the day! It’s simple, just add 1 scoop per 4-6oz of your choice of milk or juice. Shake until dissolved and enjoy Learn more at www.PowKidsHealth.com.  The chocolate is pretty delicious too!

Keep Going First Aid Kit

Price: $14.99 (KidsKit) and up

Whether your adventures take you around the world or close to home, the handy, compact Keep Going First Aid Kit has 130 pieces of essential first aid supplies. From burn relief to bandages, your family will be ready for anything! TSA approved, the lightweight kit is packaged in an organized, stylish water & stain-resistant case for at home or on-the-go. Created by a mom of four for parents, travel and adventure loving families, the Keep Going First Aid Kit is an essential for the entire family. Four kits are available, including the SuperKit (270 pieces), NEW Adult GoKit (130 pieces), GoKit (130 pieces), NEW MiniKit (60 pieces) and KidsKit (44 pieces). A variety of stylish, trendy patterns and colors are available, such as the NEW Traveler and NEW Minimalist. The kits can be found on the website https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/ and on Amazon.com. 

Smart Dreams Pajamas

Price: $46.00 PJ Set and Cards, $5.00 Bag

Website:  Smart Dreams™ | Bedtime + Education = Smart Dreams™ (havesmartdreams.com)

Turn bedtime into a fun and educational experience for your little ones! Smart Dreams Pajamas feature educational prints specifically designed for your child’s age. Each pair of pajamas arrives with coordinating fun flash cards! It is a perfect new bedtime routine. The “shop by age” feature automatically matches parents with age-appropriate learning prints. Younger learners benefit from Smart Dreams cards that focus on fundamental concepts, featuring vibrant colors and basic shapes, while older children are provided with more advanced cards that explore complex subjects like math, language, and science. The Smart Dreams team thought about every detail by consulting with teachers while designing each and every pajama set. Parents can be confident that these products are not only entertaining but also contribute to their child’s development and learning journey. Made with 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, the pajamas are super-soft and safe for your child’s skin. The pajamas have been created with a hand-me-down mind set – love it, use it, and pass it down! Available in size 2-12 in a variety of gorgeous prints & patterns. Learn more at Smart Dreams™ | Bedtime + Education = Smart Dreams™ (havesmartdreams.com). I just love the fun flash cards!

Glass Prep Jars

Price: $19.96 and up

Website: www.KeaBabies.com

Make and prep meals and snacks for your children with the Glass Prep Jars from KeaBabies! From perfectly portioned yogurt + fruit, applesauce, and small finger foods, such as crackers, the airtight, leak-proof lids seal in freshness and prevent spills while on-the-go! The perfect homemade food storage solution for you and your children are available in an array of gorgeous colors. The jars are dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe and microwavable, too. BPA-Free. https://keababies.com/collections/baby-food-jar

These are great for adults too! I am using them all of the time!

Sodee Pop, The Fizzy Drink Without the Junk!

Finally – a clean, alternative to mainstream soda that parents can offer their children and feel guilt free about! Created by a mom and nurse who cares what we put in our bodies, Sodee Pop does not contain high fructose corn syrup, dyes or artificial colors (the root beer is clear), or chemical preservatives. Orange Fizz is the ultimate fizzy delight for kids! Quench their thirst with this blend of sweet, smooth and bubbly organic orange juice and carbonated water packed into every 8oz. can. With a bright burst of flavor in every sip, Orange Fizz is the perfect treat for young taste buds seeking a refreshing adventure. Root Beer is a fizzy beverage that’s as pure as it is delicious! Imagine the classic root beer flavor you love, now in a pristine, transparent form! That’s right…. IT IS CLEAR! Say goodbye to artificial dyes and coloring because this clean soda brings all the flavor without any added extras, just carbonated water and organic root beer flavor. Sodee Pop is available in 8oz cans in Orange Fizz and Root Beer, with new Lemon-Lime Squeeze debuting soon. Learn more at SODEE POP, The Fizzy Drink Without The Junk! – Sodee Pop (drinksodeepop.com).

Bahamii Date & Almond Bars

Delicious, fiber-rich and perfect for on-the-go lifestyles, Bahamii Date & Almond Bars use 7 or less superfood ingredients – with dates as the #1 ingredient – to fuel your busy day! With a low glycemic index for steady energy, the bars are diabetic-friendly and are made with minimal, clean and simple ingredients. Enjoy a bar with your morning coffee, tuck one in your gym bag for a quick pick-me-up or take along while hiking and camping! Bahamii Date & Almond Bars are gluten-free, plant-based, vegan, kosher, and Non-GMO certified. The bars do not contain artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Available in three delicious flavors, including Chocolate Almond, Coconut Vanilla, and Honey Cinnamon. Learn more at www.Bahamii.com. 

Schär Gluten Free!  is a must-try if you are looking for Gluten Free bread! They also have tasty Artisanal Bread,  muffins, pretzels, and ciabatta! My absolute favorite is the ciabatta bread!

About Schär

For more than 100 years, Dr. Schär’s mission has been to improve the lives of people with special nutritional needs. Dr. Schär USA, Inc. is committed to providing great-tasting gluten-free food to the celiac, gluten-sensitive sensitive and IBS communities—offering a safe, flavorful, and high-quality line of gluten-free products. Schär has over 20,000 doors in the US and retailers including Walmart, Kroger, Sprouts, Whole Foods, ShopRite, Stop & Shop, and many more. The full portfolio of products spans from bread, cookies, candy, and crackers to frozen items, including puff pastry dough and croissants! The new soy-free Artisan Baker Breads further solidifies the commitment to trust among consumers with food allergies.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school post. Images and information were also provided and I only post products that I highly recommend.

New Textured Sensory Labels from Mabel’s Labels

Price: $19 and up

Website: https://mabelslabels.com/textured-sensory-labels

Help ease your child’s anxiety and fears about being away from home with the NEW Textured Sensory Labels from the parent-loved brand Mabel’s Labels! These personalized name labels have textured surfaces and cute designs, plus they keep little hands busy, allowing for more focus and concentration (plus, no more lost stuff!) Choose from 8 fun design options! 1 sheet contains 3 large labels. View the entire collection of school label packs online at www.mabelslabels.com.  They are perfect on water bottles, lunch boxes and so much more this school year!

Think gluten-free means flavor-free? Think again. There’s a new cookie in town, and it’s taking the snack world by storm. These come in 7 different flavors and they are actually delicious! My favorite is the Peanut Butter! But, the Chocolate Chip comes in a close second!

Say hello to award-winning Mightylicious, the hand-crafted cookie that truly has it all: amazing flavor, perfect texture, clean ingredients, Certified Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free and non-GMO.  —everything you want in a cookie except the gluten.

What sets these decadent cookies apart from the rest is their surprising deliciousness. Everyone is singing the praises of Mightylicious, not just people with celiac disease and health-conscious snackers, but anyone who simply can’t resist a good cookie.

I love that these are individually wrapped!

The Mightylicious story

A cookie lover who was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2012, Carolyn spent years seeking out gluten-free cookie brands. One busy holiday season, she was disappointed yet again when a gluten-free cookie crumbled entirely after one bite.

“That’s when I realized there had to be a better way,” says Carolyn, a married mom, member of the LGBTQ community, and one smart cookie herself. “I was determined to create a cookie that was gluten-free, healthy, and above all, irresistibly delicious.”

The Mightylicious line features 7 varieties in all, including 4 vegan options: New Double Dutch Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Raisin Vegan, as well as Chocolate Chip and Grandma Arline’s Oatmeal Coconut.

Also available are Brown Butter Chocolate Chip and Brown Butter Shortbread (both dairy), and Salted Peanut Butter (grain and dairy-free). Each bag contains individually wrapped cookies to maintain maximum freshness.  (6.4 oz bag, MSRP: $7.99)

Find Mightylicious online and in retail outlets including Walmart (231 outlets nationwide), Whole Foods, Costco, King’s, Price Chopper, and more. Available to hospitality and foodservice. BACK2SCHOOL24 – 30% off sitewide through AUGUST, 2024!

Looking for back-to-school essentials? Cra-Z-Art has you covered! I love their markers and colored pencils! They are absolutely favorites of mine!

Art and creativity play a crucial role in a child’s development, enhancing their ability to express themselves, solve problems, and think critically. Cra-Z-Art’s Back-to-School collection is not just about providing supplies; it’s about fostering an environment where creativity can thrive, both in and out of the classroom.

Why Cra-Z-Art?

Cra-Z-Art has long been a trusted name in the world of art supplies, known for our commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability. Here’s why our products stand out:

• Vivid Colors: Our crayons, markers, and colored pencils boast rich, vibrant colors that make every project pop.
• Durability: Cra-Z-Art products are made to last, with durable tips on markers and strong leads in pencils that resist breaking.
• Safety: All our art supplies are non-toxic, making them safe for use by young children.
• Variety: From classic crayons to neon markers, our diverse range ensures there’s something for every creative mind.

Featured Products:

1. Cra-Z-Art Crayons: Smooth and blendable, perfect for shading and mixing colors. Available in classic and unique color packs.
2. Cra-Z-Art Markers: Bold, washable markers ideal for both school projects and home crafts.
3. Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils: Pre-sharpened with high-quality pigments, ensuring vibrant and precise drawings.
4. Cra-Z-Art Coloring Books: Filled with fun and educational designs, encouraging imagination and relaxation.

The lunch box has entered the 21^st century with an on-the-go “P”B&J Sando from Rudi’s Bakery and Voyage Foods using Voyage’s Roasted Seed Spread and Rudi’s bread, making it entirely nut-free, safe for schools, and safe for clean eaters everywhere.

Rudi’s Rocky Mountain Bakery, known for its selection of organic and gluten-free breads and frozen innovations including Texas Toast and Breakfast Sandwiches, is thrilled to announce the launch of nut-free Sandos made with Rudi’s Signature Country Morning White Bread and Voyage’s Roasted Seed Spread. Available at Whole Food Market nationally. To find Sandos near you following the brand’s official launch in May, please visit: https://rudisbakery.com/store-locator/.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this back-to-school featured post. Images and information were also provided!

Have a wonderful school year and stay tuned for more back-to-school featured products!