For parents, back-to-school can feel more like New Year’s. The start of school sends us back to set routines after the casual rhythms of summer.
On a fun note, the new school year also means shopping for brand-new clothes, a backpack, lunchbox, and school supplies. Here are some items that will hopefully entice even the most reluctant student to get excited about heading back into the classroom (all prices Canadian unless otherwise indicated).
Mustard Draw It Yourself Calculator
This paper calculator allows you to create a unique-to-you, too-cool-for-school tool. Other than writing the numbers in the correct place (template provided), you can doodle anything else you want. Castles and princesses, or aliens and rocket ships — the choice is entirely up to you.
$15.67, www.amazon.ca
3Doodler 3D Printing Pen
The world’s first 3D printing pen, the 3Doodler 3D Printing Pen, allows you to take your art to the next level — literally. Draw in 3D by releasing heated plastic filament that cools almost instantly into a solid, stable structure. You’ll be amazed the first time you draw a line going straight up into the air … and it stays there!
$124.99, www.the3doodler.com, www.deserres.ca, www.amazon.ca
Build-On Brick Bookends
This item is so cool, you may just want to purchase a set for yourself! Compatible with most bricks, the Build-On Brick Bookends are a ThinkGeek creation. Keep your books or media collection neatly stacked with this innovative display of your creativity. Essential organizational tool or toy? Too close to call. Best of all, when you get bored of your bookends, simply create new ones.
$19.99 (USD), www.thinkgeek.com
Original Buddha Board
Doodle, brainstorm, communicate. The Buddha Board white board mounts onto a black tray that holds water. Dip the brush in the water to paint and watch as each stroke turns black. As the water evaporates, the board returns to white. With no messy paints or markers, this product is great for little ones, too.
$35, www.buddhaboard.com, www.amazon.ca
High Stylers and Lippy Lipstick Markers
If you have a girly girl, these markers and highlighters are a must-have. The Mustard High Stylers and Mustard Lippy Lipstick Markers will have your little fashionista begging to go to school.
Stylers: $9.49, Markers: $13.47
Write Your Own Self-Laminating Blank Labels from Emily Press
These labels are so versatile. Write on the blank labels with your permanent marker, then seal in your text with the built-in laminate. Unlike purchasing a personalized package, the write-your-own labels allow you to write multiple children’s names, provide contact information, write in different languages, label items around the house, and more. Labelling is a great way to ensure all your children’s items make it home from school, daycare, camp, and sports.
$9.99, www.emilypress.com
Google Chromebook
This ultra-portable, easy-to-use, economical computer is perfect for students. Powered by the Chrome OS, Chromebooks allow you to do everything you love, like watching movies, working on spreadsheets, writing essays, playing games, or editing photos. Loaded with familiar Google apps like Gmail, Google Docs, Google+ Photos and more, Chromebooks have all the tools you need.
$399.99, www.bestbuy.ca
Microsoft Surface Pro 3
A tablet and a laptop, Microsoft Surface Pro 3 has all the power and performance of a laptop in an incredibly lightweight, versatile form. It may just be the ultimate device. Ideal for serious high schoolers and students pursuing post-secondary education.
$949+, www.bestbuy.ca