School

New pencils are nice, but let’s be honest—kids light up for gadgets they can wear, lunch boxes that feel like treasure chests, and tools that make their favorite stories come alive. Whether you’re packing backpacks, labeling everything that moves, or prepping for that first-day drop-off, this guide rounds up the kind of gear that makes going back to school feel like gearing up for an adventure. These products are smart, screen-free (mostly), and surprisingly fun. Bonus: they might just make mornings easier.

Every August, Texas families get a break from state and local sales taxes on essential back-to-school purchases. This year, Tax-Free Weekend runs from Friday, August 8 through Sunday, August 10, offering savings of up to 8.25% on qualifying items. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, understanding the rules can help you stretch your budget and make smart choices.

Kindergarten graduation is a thrilling milestone for your little one, signaling the end of their early educational journey and the start of new adventures. What better way to commemorate this achievement than with a special and one-of-a-kind gift?

Say goodbye to typical crafts and games because we've compiled a list of 12 fun and extraordinary graduation gift ideas that are guaranteed to bring a smile to their faces. So, let's dive in and discover that perfect present!

Hello there, fellow parents! It's that time of the year again – the first day of school is just around the corner. The backpacks are packed, lunch boxes are ready, and excitement is bubbling in the air. What better way to capture this precious moment than with a first day of school sign? Let's make those first day memories last a lifetime!

Kindergarten round-ups are in full swing. Does your little one start Kindergarten this fall? Are you a first-time Kindergarten parent and a bit nervous of what’s about to come?

In the following guest post, Angela Kendall, author of the critically acclaimed book “A New Day: Kindergarten Is Here", provides tips on how to have a great kindergarten experience:  

Is your child anxious about going back to school after a long summer break or nervous about starting school for the first time? The following books will help your kids ease the transition (back) to school, calm the jitters, and get them excited about school. Read on for details.

Hard to believe, but school starts in a couple of weeks! In case you're looking for a backpack or a lunchbox for your little ones, check out the super versatile backpacks and lunchboxes from Wanderwild.

Read more about Wanderwild and enter for a chance to win your own Wanderwild lunchbox!

Back in March, we couldn’t really prepare for remote learning, since nobody knew what to expect and what to prepare for. This time around it is different. I know exactly how to get ready and what to stock up on. Here’s my Back to Virtual-School List:

Many children in and around Austin participate in the free or reduced meals programs at their school. When school is over for the summer it can be an expensive time for many families.

Fortunately, many schools and organizations in and around Austin offer a Summer Food Service Program where children age 18 and under can visit a summer meal site throughout the summer while school is out of session to receive free meals, snacks and participate in fun activities. Read on for participating locations. 

Does your child’s high school offer students the opportunity of and assistance with voter registration? They should. It's the law. 

Twice each academic year, once per semester, Texas high school principals must offer students 18 years of age or turning 18 that school year, the chance to register to vote.

Learn more about your child's high school's duties and how you can get involved and help others register to vote.

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