Back-to-school season looks a little different in my house. My little one attends a toddler program twice a week, but for many families, this time of year means a full return to early mornings, packed schedules and nightly routines.
Whether you are preparing a child for the classroom, heading back to campus or simply trying to make busy weekdays run more smoothly, these practical finds can help your family feel connected, organized and ready for the year ahead.
Stay Connected Without Handing Over a Smartphone
Verizon Gizmo Watch 4
For parents who want to stay connected with their children but are not ready to give them a smartphone, the Verizon Gizmo Watch 4 offers a kid-friendly alternative. The smartwatch includes location tracking, communication with parent-approved contacts and School Mode, which can limit distractions during the school day.
I love this idea. The more I think about how much time we all spend glued to our smartphones, the more I wonder whether we should bring back flip phones and give ourselves a break. For children especially, a device that keeps them connected without providing all the distractions of a smartphone feels like a realistic middle ground.
Verizon is also offering several back-to-school promotions for families. New and existing customers can receive the Gizmo Watch 4 through monthly promotional credits when they purchase it on a 36-month device-payment plan and activate a new watch line. Other offers include device bundles, discounts for teachers and savings for eligible college students.
Families can also explore the Verizon Family App, digital-wellness resources and tools designed to help parents and children establish healthier technology habits.
Price: Promotional offer with qualifying purchase and new service line
Where to buy: Verizon
Pack the School-Day Essentials for Less
WSS Backpacks
A dependable backpack is the foundation of any back-to-school checklist. WSS offers backpacks starting at $19.99, including select designs with padded straps, USB ports, water-resistant finishes and clear options for schools with specific bag requirements.
The accessible price point is especially helpful for families shopping for more than one student or replacing a bag that may not make it through another year. Styles and availability vary, so check online or at a local WSS store for current options.
Price: Starting at $19.99
Where to buy: WSS
Ease Into Earlier Bedtimes
Helight Sleep
Getting everyone back on a school-night sleep schedule can be one of the hardest parts of the seasonal transition. Helight Sleep is a compact, NASA-inspired red-light lamp designed to support a calming bedtime routine.
Its 28-minute cycle begins with 14 minutes of 630-nanometer red light and then gradually dims for another 14 minutes. Place it on a nightstand and use it as directed before bed as a signal that it is time to put away the screens and wind down. Individual sleep experiences may vary.
Price: $139
Where to buy: Helight and Amazon
Make Curly-Hair Wash Day Feel a Little Easier
Ocoa Scalp Massager
Between packed mornings and after-school activities, a simple hair-care routine can make a meaningful difference. The Ocoa Scalp Massager can be used during wash day to help work shampoo through the scalp while giving the routine a relaxing touch.
At under $15, it is an easy addition for households caring for curls and looking to make wash day feel less like another chore.
Price: $12.98
Where to buy: Ocoa
Simplify the Busy-Morning Skin-Care Routine
Off We Glow Rush Hour Serum for Sensitive Skin
When the morning routine has to happen quickly, a multitasking product earns its spot by the bathroom mirror. Off We Glow’s Rush Hour Serum for Sensitive Skin is a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula created for sensitive, breakout-prone skin.
Designed to hydrate and visibly calm the complexion without feeling greasy or heavy, it is a practical option for parents, teachers and college students trying to streamline their skin-care steps before heading out the door.
Price: $59
Where to buy: Off We Glow
Add Color in One Quick Step
Lanolips Ceramide Milkshake Tinted Lip Balm
The Lanolips Ceramide Milkshake Tinted Lip Balm combines the comfort of a lip balm with sheer, buildable color. Formulated with lanolin, ceramides and murumuru butter, it is designed to hydrate the lips and support the moisture barrier while leaving behind a glossy tint.
The collection includes four milkshake-inspired shades: Strawberry Bubble, Raspberry Crumble, Caramel Melt and Mocha Choca. Keep one in a tote, desk drawer or school bag for an easy finishing touch on the go.
Price: $13.50 on the Lanolips website; prices may vary by retailer
Where to buy: Lanolips, Anthropologie and Amazon
Step Into the New Routine in Comfort
Naturalizer Greta Ballet Sneaker
Part ballet flat and part sneaker, the Naturalizer Greta Ballet Sneaker is made for days that move from school drop-off or class to work, errands and everything after.
Its streamlined silhouette looks polished, while features such as arch and heel support, breathable lining and flexible foam cushioning are designed for all-day wear. Pair it with jeans, trousers or a casual dress when you want the look of a flat with the comfort of a sneaker.
Price: Originally $134.99; recently listed on sale for $69.99
Where to buy: Famous Footwear
Back-to-school season can feel like a reset for the entire household. The best additions are not necessarily the trendiest ones. They are the products that solve an everyday problem, save a little time or help everyone move through the new routine with less stress.