As with any big date in the calendar, there’s a lot of hype around what you actually need to buy for when your kids go back to school this month. Our sales experts have done their homework and in this blog we’ll take you through their recommendations. 

Image courtesy of Natalie Bond. Published on: March 11th, 2020. Source: pexels.com

It’s in the bag 

One of the most important items for any child going back to school is a school bag. It should be tough enough to stand up to the rough and tumble of the school run and the classroom, distinctive enough that your child can easily keep track of it, and big enough to carry all their paraphernalia. 

The ideal design will depend on the age of your kid: for younger kids, a small backpack or day bag should be sufficient, but older students will benefit from a hand luggage-style bag on wheels to help them with all those heavy textbooks. Make sure it also has a padded pocket for their laptop or tablet. 

And then there are the kit bags for cricket, tennis, hockey, rugby – you name it! 

Image courtesy of Zen Chung. Published on: October 6th, 2020. Source: pexels.com

Stay connected 

There’s a lot of debate around when the right age is to buy your child a phone, but there’s no denying how reassuring it can be to be able to message or call during the day if, for example, one or both of you are running late, or plans change (soccer practice called off due to lightning, for example). 

A smartphone may be too much of a distraction, but a feature phone can be the perfect compromise: calls and SMS, but no access to social media or websites. 

Drink up 

It’s hard to concentrate on what the teacher is saying if you’re dehydrated, so get your kids in the sipping habit with a new water bottle. They come in every possible size and shape, so it’s easy to choose one that features a favourite cartoon character or even an inspiring quote to make youngsters want to learn (and drink more water). 

Image courtesy of Mary Taylor. Published on: November 16th, 2020. Source: pexels.com

The name of the game 

Let’s face it, items of school uniform and sports kit get misplaced – especially because every kid has very similar clothing. That’s where a fabric marker comes in, so you can write your child’s name in strategic locations in each garment. Iron-on labels are another option – either approach will help you avoid having to re-buy the same things over and again, or having to work out whose uniform your son or daughter has brought home by mistake. 

Image courtesy of Ron Lach. Published on: December 25th, 2021. Source: pexels.com

Just in case 

A new pencil case is a wonderful way for your young learner to express their personality. With literally thousands of designs to choose from, you can easily find one that depicts their favourite sports team, cartoon character, gaming world, or car. Make the pencil case an even more exciting gift by filling it with useful stationery: pens, pencils, highlighters and more. 

Image courtesy of RDNE Stock project. Published on: March 10th, 2021. Source: pexels.com

Tag along 

An Apple AirTag can be a great way to ensure your peace of mind, as it will let you keep tabs on where your child is throughout the school day. It’s not controlling, it’s another way of showing just how much you love your little learner. 

You’ll find many more back-to-school essentials on Bob Shop – be sure to shop early so you’re ready for when the school bell rings on the first day of term! 

Image courtesy of Ðűc Trįnh. Published on: May 5th, 2021. Source: unsplash.com