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It happens each year: Summer flies by in the blink of an eye for students and parents alike. Before you know it, it’s already time for the rush of the back-to-school season. This time of year means equipping students with the best products possible, setting them up for success so they can have the best school year possible.
As times change, so too do students’ needs, though. In recent years, sustainable, multi-functional, and kid-friendly product design has come to the forefront of the market. These designs are safer for children to use and far more efficient and valuable to them. Independent brands have played a massive role in redefining everyday school gear and supplies, making them some of the hottest items on the market this fall.
Sustainable and Stylish School Lunch & Cleanup Solutions
Eco-friendly household products have grown in popularity over the last several years. These items are ideal for school lunches and after-school events. Repurpose is a brand specializing in plant-based, compostable alternatives, including cutlery and plates. Founded in 2010, it is now the leading brand for plant-based, compostable alternatives to plastic in the US, available in 20,000 stores nationwide.
Repurpose offers various sustainable household items, including school lunches and family gatherings. As the CEO, Lauren Gropper details, “We’re not asking people to pay significantly more. It’s just… Swap what you’re already using for something better for you, your family, and the planet.”
Backpacks and Gear that Pop With Personality
There has been an uptick in the demand for aesthetic and functional bags and accessories that suit students and parents. Comfort Diva’s canvas backpacks, thermal lunch bags, and tech accessories combine fashion with this precise functionality.
“I want to put the fun into functionality. Whether you’re going to work, camping, or school, these items are appropriate and full of joy,” said Lisa Sheppard, founder of Comfort Diva.
The company also offers cat-themed lifestyle products focusing on elevated, colorful designs for discerning customers. These products benefit the user and community, as 10% of sales benefit cat rescues.
Learning Tools That Encourage Creativity and Calm
Reusable and mess-free crafts are helping kids stay off screens while nurturing creativity. Little Change Creators’ silicon coloring mats are used in homes and classrooms as educational and behavioral support tools. Founded in late 2021, the company has nearly two hundred stockists in Australia, including department stores, museums, and zoos. Currently, the team is expanding to the US market.
The products aim to promote creativity and calm while being reusable, versatile, and educational. “It’s great as a calm-down tool… it allows kids to reset, and teachers say it helps with classroom behavior,” shares Paige McInnes, founder of Little Change Creators.
Durable and Ethical Clothing for Active Kids
It is incredibly important to have sustainable and durable school clothing, especially for active children and growing families. To address such concerns, Jackalo offers organic, long-lasting kidswear for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.
In addition, the company has a resale and recycling program to help these sustainable clothes remain sustainable for years to come. Eighty percent of returned garments are resold without repair, and the company offers store credits for such returns.
The company is expanding into the school uniform market and launching a recycled denim collection. “We want parents to say, ‘Go climb that tree’ without worrying the clothes won’t hold up,” says Marianna Sachse, founder of Jackalo.
Creative Expression Through Music
Recent studies have continued to demonstrate the benefits of music education in developing cognitive and emotional skills. Rozanna’s Violins and their imaginative instruments are designed to inspire student participation and artistic identity. The brand creates innovative, appealing instruments to motivate youth engagement in music.
The company recently won NAMM’s “She Rocks” Entrepreneur of the Year award, signaling industry recognition.
In addition, it has formed partnerships with bigger brands such as Guitar Center and forged school collaborations that drive growth and student enthusiasm. “Our goal is to help kids connect with music emotionally and visually; it’s about building a poetic heart,” says Rozanna Weinberger, founder of Rozanna’s Violins.
Final Thoughts
Factors such as innovation in design, sustainability, and emotional well-being are shaping the future of school essentials. These products have proven capable of serving students and parents in bold new ways. To this end, parents should seek products that meet their kids’ needs and promote creativity, responsibility, and joy this back-to-school season.
