I cannot believe it’s already back-to-school time and that summer break is almost over! This summer flew by, and while Jules doesn’t go to school full time yet, there’s still a lot of work that goes into getting her ready to go back. Whether your toddler is starting preschool for the first time or heading into another year, having the right back to school essentials for toddlers makes the transition so much smoother, for both you and them.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve learned what’s worth investing in and what just ends up sitting on the shelf. From snack boxes to comfy shoes, here’s my tried-and-true list that’s made toddler back to school season much less stressful.
Snack Boxes That Make Life Easier
Toddlers need snacks and lots of them. That’s why a good snack and lunch box are at the top of my back to school essentials for toddlers. A good snack box keeps food fresh and easy to grab. I love the Bentgo Box because it’s sturdy, leak-proof, and perfectly portioned for little hands. If you’re looking for something that keeps food cool until lunchtime, the PackIt Insulated Lunch Box is a game changer! You can even prep it the night before and put it in the fridge so you can grab and go in the morning.
Backpacks That Last (and are easy to clean)
Even though Jules isn’t carrying a ton to school yet, she still gets so excited to pack her backpack. I’m a big fan of State Backpacks for their durability and style. Stoney Clover also makes fun designs that you can customize with patches that hold up for several years. Of course Target and Amazon have great options that are equally as cute. The key is finding something lightweight, comfortable, and easy for your toddler to carry, and one that cleans easily as they are always getting dirty!
Crafts and Supplies
From crayons and glue sticks to safety scissors and washable markers, craft supplies are always a must-have on any back to school essentials for toddlers list. Even if the school provides some, I like to keep extras at home for when Jules wants to do art projects in the afternoon to show us what she learned and did at school that day! It’s the perfect way to unwind after school and keep that creativity flowing.
New Durable Shoes

A fresh school year means fresh outfits! Toddlers grow so fast, so I use this time to clean out the closet and stock up on comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes. Shoes are a big one too, I look for easy-on, easy-off styles like Velcro sneakers to make toddler back to school mornings a little smoother. I love the Adidas ones because they are good quality and have so many options like these velcro ones or these tie ones for your older kids.
Getting Jules ready for the school year may not involve full-day schedules yet, but it still takes planning and preparation. By focusing on the right back to school essentials for toddlers like a functional backpack, practical snack box, and comfy clothes, you can make the transition easier and even exciting. Whether you splurge on brands like State Backpacks and Stoney Clover or find great deals at Target, and Amazon, the goal is the same: set your little one up for success for the new school year.
This blog was all about back to school essentials for toddlers and toddler back to school! If you are looking for similar content or even easy family dinner ideas for back to school, check out my blog everydaywithcassie.com.



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