The long, lazy days of summer are winding down, which means a new school year will soon be upon us (yours may have already started!). Do you have everything you need to help ensure a successful year for your star student(s)?
By now, you’ve probably received a list of required supplies from your child’s school. But there’s more to back-to-school shopping than pencils, paper and protractors.
From vitamins to lip balm and healthy snacks, here are some other essentials you’ll want to gather before the school year kicks into full gear.
Multivitamins
As you’re probably aware, schools are breeding grounds for germs. Bolster your child’s immunity—and nutrition—with a daily multivitamin. Try Nordic Naturals Nordic Berries™ Multivitamin Gummies for children and adults, because unfortunately, you’ll be exposed to those nasty school germs, too!
Broad spectrum sunscreen
Standing at the bus stop, walking to and from school, lunch on the lawn, PE, recess… Your child will likely have ample sun exposure during the school day, so reliable protection is a must. Stash a tube of water-resistant, paraben-free Alba Botanica™ Hawaiian Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen in his or her backpack!
Lip balm
Dry, cracked lips—whether from the summer heat or wintry winds—can distract your child during class. Moisturizing lip balm, like Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Lip Balm, can help relieve dryness so your kiddo can focus on the teacher instead of his or her parched pucker.
Water bottle
Among other important functions, proper hydration helps regulate your child’s body temperature and energy levels throughout the school day. Water consumption is even more important if he or she participates in sports during or after school. Check out the EcoVessel Summit TriMax Insulated Water Bottle with Flip Straw Top. This sweat- and BPA-free stainless-steel thermos will keep your kiddo’s H20 cold for an impressive 36 hours!
Healthy snacks
Hunger can set in at any time during the school day. Make sure your student is prepared for snack attacks by stocking up on healthy choices, such as fruit (bananas and mandarin oranges travel especially well), Nature's Path Organic Chewy Granola Bars, Annie's Homegrown Organic Snack Mix and Enjoy Life Crunchy Minis.
Breath mints
Bad breath can tank your son or daughter’s social life. But not to worry. Tossing a container (or two) of breath mints into the backpack can help secure his or her social standing this year. Try Newman's Own Organics Peppermints—they’re potent and organic!
Hand sanitizer
Your child can keep germs at bay during the school day with antibacterial hand sanitizer. Look for the kind that attaches to a keychain as it can be clipped to a backpack for easy access!
Adhesive bandages
Sure, your son or daughter will go to nurse’s office for medical emergencies. But it’s still smart to keep bandages on hand for minor injuries, like paper cuts.
Tissues
We probably don’t need to explain why your kiddo will need tissues this school year. Needless to say, they are a back-to-school shopping must!
Umbrella
Even if your child doesn’t walk to and from school, an umbrella can offer protection from rain at the bus stop or during the mad dash from the carpool line into the building. Look for a compact one that will fit easily inside a backpack.
Emergency money
Although not technically something you shop for, it’s a good idea to put some cash in your child’s backpack for emergencies (e.g., he or she accidentally left lunch at home).
Get your hands on all the items from this list (in one convenient place) by clicking the green button below!
Or, click on the image below to explore more healthy back-to-school essentials available at Vitacost.com.
