There’s nothing like back-to-school shopping to get everyone excited about fall and getting back to class. This is what you’ll find at local NYC boutiques for back-to-school gear, clothes and more, for kids just starting school or those too cool for it. (i.e, your seven-year-old, etc.) Read on to send your kid to school in style!

Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store

STATE

An “everything but the kitchen sink” independent shop, Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store has many great backpacks at various price points (including State Bags, shown here, that have a compelling “Give Back” model). Plus, lunch boxes such as Yumboxes that make it really easy to pack lunch thanks to little compartments, as well as lots of Stainless Steel options too. To pack along with lunch, Blue Ribbon sells lunch box notes and to write thoughtful and fun messages for your kid. They also have several teaching games and tools, such as multiplication flashcards, sight word cards,  games for learning about money, math, reading, and maps too! 

232 5th Ave. Brooklyn
Park Slope
718-522-9848
Online: blueribbongeneralstore.com

CAMP

Mimi O'Connor

This year, CAMP has so many fun and unique products that would make any kid excited to hit the books again. With four shops between Manhattan and Brooklyn, it’s your one-stop back-to-school shop for play, media and merchandise that’s enriching and, of course, fun. Popular items include Ooly Left-Right Ergonomic Crayons, colorful EPIC everyday backpacks, corkboards, unicorn erasers, and CAMP's own signature duffle bag.

110 5th Ave
Flatiron
Online: camp.com

10 Columbus Circle 
The Shops at Columbus Circle,
Columbus Circle 
Midtown

20 Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards

1 Dekalb Ave.
City Point
Downtown Brooklyn 

Smoochie Baby

Smoochie Baby

Popular items for kids returning to school this year at Smoochie Baby include CarlijnQ Backpacks—an all-organic brand from the Netherlands—Old Soles Champsters high-tops, the Rowdy Sprout Frank Zappa tee, My Little Cozmo Dakota Sherpa Jacket and Fairwell sweats.

110 Berry St. 
Williamsburg
718-384-3340
Online: smoochiebaby.com

Book Culture

Amol S. via Yelp

Your local independent bookstore is also often a great place for distinctive writing materials. Book Culture, which has four locations sells pencils, pens and groovy notebooks, as well as stylish ways to tote them around, like pencil cases, backpacks and more. 

26-09 Jackson Ave.
Long Island City
718-440-3120
Online: bookculture.com

536 W. 112th St. 
Morningside Heights 
2915 Broadway
Morningside Heights 

Jane's Exchange

Janes Exchange via Yelp

Not many second-hand kids' clothes shops remain, but Jane's Exchange, the largest and oldest children's and maternity Store in NYC, recently opened its second storefront in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Fashion-wise, new this season are fall corduroy pants, overalls, and overall pinafores. High-quality basics from Mini Boden, Hanna Andersen, Primary, Milo, Rock Your Kid are all the rage in shades of softer greys, browns, muted colors and animal prints. Plus, sneakers from Jordans to Vans are attracting kids of all ages.

191 East 3rd St.
East Village
212-677-0380
Online: janesexchange.com

443 7th Ave.
Park Slope
347-987-4192

Consignment4kids.com

Consignment4Kids

Another option for scoring some gently-used (or even new!) kids' clothes is the new online kid's consignment shop Consignment4kids.com. The virtual secondhand shop was Started by an NYC mom (and Tinybeans contributor!) who wanted to give hardly-worn pieces another chance to shine, while also providing fellow parents some bargains, and the possibility of earning a few bucks. Consignment4kids.com is stocked with clothes and accessories for boys and girls from infant to age eight. Brands you'll find in the store include Jacadi, Pink Chicken and Polo Ralph Lauren, and items are priced to move! Pickup and dropoff can be arranged for a small fee, or you can mail in items. If your merch doesn't sell after 90 days Consignment4kids will donate the items for you to organizations like Room to Grow and Goodwill. 

Online: consignment4kids.com

Grandma’s Place

Grandma's Place via Yelp

Recently featured in Humans of New York, Grandma’s Place is your one-stop-shop for toys, games, and books—it’s a real neighborhood gem in Harlem. Many books and toys they sell have an ethnic focus, such as the books Tea Cakes for Tosh, Sulwe, Curls, and the coloring book Princess Planet. Outdoor, musical, and Melissa & Doug toys are also available.

84 W 120th St.
Harlem
212-360-6776
Online: grandmasplaceinharlem.com

Parachute Brooklyn

Parachute Brooklyn via Yelp

Parachute Brooklyn offers gently used modern and vintage clothing for kids ages 0-10. The boutique also carries a selection of new accessories as well as small-batch, one-of-a-kind pieces from local designers with a focus on upcycled materials. Big hits this fall include Parkland backpacks, socks from Happy Socks and Little Stocking Co., hair accessories from Chunks and Wunderkin Co., Umbrellas from Hipster Kid, and quilted jackets from SAJ. The shop’s selection of second-hand jackets and sweaters are among the top sellers this season.

151 Norman Ave.
718-383-0567
Greenpoint
Online: parachutebrooklyn.com

Babesta

Rowdy Sprout

It’s fashion-forward in this downtown NYC shop. Babesta’s newest collection of Rowdy Sprout T-shirts are in, and they're essential for making a style statement this fall. Tagless and made in LA, there's a Rowdy Sprout t-shirt for every music fan, big and little. 

56 Warren St.
Tribeca
646-290-5508
Online: babesta.com

Two Kids and a Dog 

Natalia J. via Yelp

A DUMBO destination for families with kids for, Two Kids and a Dog sells a mix of baby, kid and tween goods. Here’s where you’ll find a ton of toys, kids' clothing, shoes, scooters, birthday gifts and more—i.e., a well-curated inventory of a little bit of everything. Pick up your child’s high-quality essentials here, such as colorful water bottles from Eco vessel and Swell, backpacks from Herschel and Parkland, and lunch boxes from Yumbox and Omielife. 

65 Pearl St. 
DUMBO
646-342-4549
Online: twokidsandadog.com 

Awesome Brooklyn

brooklyn kids store
Awesome Brooklyn

This one-of-a-kind gift shop carries everything from New York-themed mugs and baby gear, to swirly pastel chalk and Grow-Your-Own-Unicorn toy eggs. Staffers say all things organizing are hot for back-to-school, such as the Julie Mollo clutches shown here, whimsical “To-do” pads, feelings trackers, and general self-care goods. 

617 Flatbush Ave.
(between Fenimore Street and Rutland Road)
Prospect Lefferts Gardens 
718-928-7484
Online: awesomebrooklyn.com

main photo: Rowdy Sprout 

—Rachel Sokol

RELATED STORIES: 

Where to Find Family Fun for Fall 2021

Hey, Boo! Where to Find Halloween Fun in NYC

Top Seeds: The Best Apple Picking Near NYC

NYC’s Best Free Events for Kids & Families This Month

It goes without saying that teachers are some of the hardest working professionals out there. Not only are they wrangling and educating our kids five days a week, but they often pay for the supplies out of their own pocket. With a new school year upon us, we asked teachers what kind of items they can always use in the classroom and here’s their wishlist.

Disinfecting Wipes

We love these Lemi Shine wipes because they are bleach free, made with biodegradable ingredients and kills over 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.

Find them at lemishine.com,

Printer Paper

Whether its having enough paper to print out worksheets or its used as a craft, teachers love having a stock of paper on hand. You can give the gift of paper easily on your next Target run by picking up a box for less than $20.

Hand Sanitizer

We've all come to value the importance of hand sanitizer the last year and a half––especially teachers. Help them stock up easily by grabbing a few extra bottles on your next Target or Walmart run, or order a huge bottle from Macy's to keep little hands clean.

Glue Sticks

For some reason, glue sticks are always in short supply, especially for kindergarteners! During back to school shopping, large packs are usually on big specials where you can snag 12 for less than $5. Your teachers will thank you!

Crayons

When you can find a pack of crayons for $4.99, why not shower your classroom with several boxes? Whether its for your kindergartener or fourth grader, crayons are always in high demand!

Paper Towels & Tissues

Spills, sneezes, messes, oh my! When it comes to paper supplies, school districts often shop quantity over quality––and can still run out. Teachers are always open to softer tissues and thicker paper towels if you can donate.

Single Color Packs of Construction Paper

Teachers will ALWAYS use packs of construction paper, but sometimes the most popular colors (like around holidays) aren't always in supply from the school stash. You can help by picking up a single color pack of larger sizes like 12x18 and gifting to teachers a month before the holiday approaches.

Treasure Box Items

We may not understand the draw of a sticky hand, but a full treasure box in the classroom is a huge help to teachers and students. Help your kiddos teacher with a donation of incentive items like fidgets, squishy toys and finger boards, all for less than $20.

Dry Erase Markers & Erasers

Little learners love to use small whiteboards in class, but erasers can either be terrible quality or in short supply. Grab a huge pack of pens and erasers on your next Amazon order to keep the dry erase fun going!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


RELATED STORIES

Our Favorite Books to Ease the Back-to-School Transition

10 Awesome School Lunch Delivery Services

Everything You Need to Get Back-to-School Ready

 

Back-to-school shopping is in full effect! Trying to figure out what’s cool for school this year? We’ve partnered with OshKosh B’Gosh, the iconic kid’s brand, to bring you the top three trends that are coming back in a big way. Now you don’t have to guess: “Will they like this? Will they wear this?” because we’ve got the trends they’ll love so you can keep calm and shop on!

P.S. If your tiny human rocks a uniform for school, OshKosh also has your family covered with comfortable classics! Shop here.

1. Tie-Dye

It’s not just for hippies—all the cool kids are wearing it (chances are you’ve picked up a few colorful tie-dyed pieces for yourself!). What’s not to love? Tie-dye sends instant cool vibes and is just plain fun. These psychedelic fashion statements are a simple way to add a pop of color to their wardrobe this fall and beyond. Clothes with benefits: Color is the ultimate pick-me-up any day of the week! We love OshKosh’s trendy tie-dye duds. Check them out and buy now, here. Peace and love (and so much fun)!

 

 

2. Denim

You may be thinking: “Yes, of course, denim!”. It may seem like a no-brainer because denim is classic, but the kind of denim is crucial to what’s cool this season, specifically overalls and jackets. Who knows kids denim better than OshKosh B’Gosh

They’ve been in the denim game since 1895, when they started making rugged hickory-striped denim overalls for Northwestern Line railroad workers on Commerce Street in OshKosh, WI. By the 1920s, they began making child-size overalls and jackets. These denim styles have historic cool vibes, and we are loving it—check the latest from OshKosh here.

 

 

3. Athleisure

Nothing says “cool without even trying,” like athleisure. It’s comfy, uncomplicated and comes in a range of styles and colors to fit any personality. Bonus: This easy-breezy fashion trend goes from gym class to math class effortlessly, so you get more bang for your fashion buck with these multitasking threads. OshKosh has you covered, with new laid-back styles you can find here.

 

The latest: OshKosh is bridging the gap by bringing history to the present, by celebrating the confidence and determination of icons before they were icons, to show the next generation it’s ok to dream boldly about who you’ll become someday! Check out “Today Is Someday” here—happy shopping!

 


Stretch Chino Shorts

Was $28 NOW $12 BUY NOW

Uniform Pique Polo

Was $18 NOW $7 (buy 3+, save $1 on each) BUY NOW

Skinny Jeans In Rinse Wash

Was $38 NOW $23 BUY NOW

Sun-Washed Pocket Henley

Was $26 NOW $16 BUY NOW

Tie Dye Hoodie

Was $36 NOW $22 BUY NOW

Tie Dye Leggings

Was $22 NOW $17 BUY NOW

Girlfriend Jeans In Frost Wash

Was $36 NOW $22 BUY NOW

Kindness Sparkle Tee

Was $26 NOW $16 BUY NOW

—Jamie Aderski

If you love everything about IKEA, including how it smells of meatballs and deals, you’re in for a treat! To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the IKEA U.S. Family Program, the beloved Swedish retailer is releasing a limited edition HUVUDROLL Meatball scented candle! And if you’re an IKEA Family member, you can enter to win one as part of a “Store in a Box” package starting August 6.

The Store in a Box promises “the best, most recognizable pieces of an IKEA store to bring home,” including the meatball candle. If the cute blue packaging is any indicator, you’ll definitely want to toss your name into contest consideration. Plus that candle is a must-have!

IKEA is also running a number of deals to commemorate the anniversary. You’ll score $50-$100 off BRATHULT sofas, 40% off SISSIL cushion covers, 25% off SILKEBORG, MEJRUP and VEDTOFTE rugs and 20% off select FNITTRIG plant pots, among other discounts. Visit the website for the full list of deals, including in-store only offerings.

Finally, if you shop August 14-15 and spend $100 or more, you’ll receive one of the signature big blue bags to take home! Move on over, back-to-school shopping, because IKEA is making a real power move!
—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of IKEA

 

RELATED STORIES

IKEA’s Pride Tote Returns & Gives Back in a Special Way

IKEA and the LEGO Group Introduce BYGGLEK

9 IKEA Finds Perfect for Summer

 

The Bay Area is the mecca for adventurous eating, so why should the adults be having all the fun? From acai bowls to Indian burritos, it’s time to trade in the standard chocolate chip cookie for a macaroon at these local spots with little foodies in mind. Check out our favorite family restaurants for adventurous kids to get those taste buds talking.

Pacific Catch

Pacific Catch/Anna Marks

With a brand-new location that just opened up in Santa Clara, you have even more options for dining out with your family at Pacific Catch. Offering primarily seafood options, your family will love the fish tacos, lobster roll with fresh avocado and the family-style fresh catch entrees that take the guesswork out of what to order for dinner. The kids menu options include kid-sized versions of the popular fish and chips, coconut shrimp and California rolls. Non-fish eaters can opt for chicken strips or a teriyaki bowl with chicken as the protein. The Santa Clara location has ample outdoor seating and a fire pit for when the temps dip. 

3315 Coronado Place
Santa Clara, CA

11 locations across the Bay Area including Cupertino, San Francisco and Walnut Creek

Online: pacificcatch.com

Jack's Restaurant

Kate Loweth

With four Bay Area locations to choose from, there's likely a Jack's Restaurant near you. We love it for a family night out as the restaurants are totally family-friendly and the menu is full of food that kids will love. Take the kids on a trip to the Mediterranean with the sampler as a starter (pitas, hummus and tzatziki). Lamb meatballs are terrific for sharing along with the garlic oregano fries. Skip the traditional kid's menu choices and share a plate of the lamb chops that are perfectly sized for picking up and eating with your hands. To keep the Greek flavor going until the end, opt for the galaktoboureko for dessert. Layers of sweet phyllo pastry, semolina custard and apricot-orange blossom preserve will be just the bite you need to round out the meal. 

Locations in Newark, San Bruno, San Mateo and Pleasant Hill
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Online: ilovejacks.com

August (1) Five

Kate Loweth

The deep aromas of Indian food welcome you as soon as you walk in the door at August (1) Five in San Francisco. This modern take on Indian food is particularly kid friendly at brunch time when they offer a rotating menu of options like French toast topped with bananas and butterscotch and arancini. Both Chef Manish and owner Hetal's own children love the Poori Aloo, a potato stew, and the Veggie Appam, a savory, gluten-free pancake. It's location is ideal as it is right down the street from the War Memorial Opera House and open for dining before or after Nutcracker and SF Symphony performances. 

524 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tues.-Fri. Dinner: 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Tues.-Sun. (open until 10:30 p.m. on Fri.-Sat).
Online: august1five.com

SAJJ Mediterranean

SAJJ Mediterranean

Need something a little different to eat on family movie night? Check out SAJJ Mediterranean for a menu that’s healthy, filling and affordable for the whole crew with locally-sourced produce and hormone-free Halal meats. With their Feast for 4 deal, you’ll get falafel, chicken shwarma, salad, rice, hummus, tzatziki and pita bread for all of $30. With locations in SF, Mountain View, San Jose and Sunnyvale, you can pick it up on your way home and have dinner done.

4140 North First St.
Suite #10
San Jose, CA
Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m-9 p.m & Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m-10 p.m
Onlinesajjstreeteats.com

Curry Up Now

Stephanie N. via Yelp

The popular food truck serving Indian street food with a twist has several brick and mortar locations all over the Bay Area, and the décor is enough to want to hang out with the whole family. While the food choices can be a bit spicy for the little ones, the kids' menu is there to the rescue. The Bunty Burrito with paneer and Naan Pizza are top choices that are an instant hit, while grown-ups can snack on Sexy Fries and samosas. Can’t stay? Check out their Family-Style Meals To Go in Alameda and Oakland (for now).

1745 San Pablo Ave.
Oakland, CA
Hours: Mon.-Sun., 11:30 a.m-9 p.m
Onlinecurryupnow.com

Mendocino Farms

Kate Loweth

This LA-based deli (and more!) is all the rage since it opened up its first location in Campbell and second in San Jose. The kids' menu is pretty standard, but the PB&J will probably be the best version of this sandwich you’ll ever have. Get your little ones to try something new like the beet side salad—you can grab samples of whatever sides look appetizing while you wait to pay for your meal. Aside from the delish menu, these people know what it’s like to eat out with kids by designing a kid’s corner complete with a mini table, chalk wall and Connect Four game. With the goal of building a place that the community can gather around, Mendocino Farms just might hit the spot. Read more here

The Pruneyard
1875 S. Bascom Ave.
Campbell, CA

Santana Row
3090 Olsen Dr., Suite 150
San Jose, CA

Opening soon in San Mateo

Hours: Daily from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Onlinemendocinofarms.com

Gracias Madre

Stephanie via Flickr

With a restaurant named “Thanks Mom” in Spanish and a dedication to love of the earth and the families that live in it, you almost have to visit, and it’ll be so worth it. This Mission Mexican joint is 100% plant-based, non-GMO and authentic. The interior décor takes you to a village in Mexico, while the food (looking at you guacamole) snagged some rave reviews from the Zagat national food reviewers. Try the quesadillas with pumpkin seed salsa and flautas with sweet potato and caramelized onions for a delicious take on vegan Mexican fare.

2211 Misson St.
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Mon. & Tues., 11 a.m-10 p.m; Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m-11 p.m; Sat., 10 a.m-11 p.m; Sun., 10 a.m-10 p.m
Onlinegracias-madre.com

Bumble

Mama bees looking for a place that doesn’t scream kid friendly but so is, look no further than Bumble. Its chic décor makes it an ideal spot for a mama’s brunch, while the playroom (available for a fee) and healthy kids' menu makes it all sorts of OK to bring the little ones. Mini pink waffles will match your grown-up portion, and the Lil B’ Plate makes it a point to include seasonal fruit and veggies. You can spend an entire afternoon here, but be sure to check the calendar for movie days and family nights.

145 First St.
Los Altos, CA
Hours: Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m-2 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m-3 p.m
Onlinebumblelosaltos.com

 

Mana Bowls

Connie M. via Yelp

For a healthy snack when the tummies are growling, head on over to Mana Bowls for take out. The Brazilian café is all about the super foods in a delicious way with acai bowls, smoothies and fresh juices. The peanut butter mango bowl is one of our favorites—acai sorbet and coconut base topped with granola and honey. The bitty bowls are perfect for the mini-me's and come with acai sorbet, bananas, strawberries, apple juice and granola.

1930 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Fairfax, CA
Hours: Daily 10 a.m-5 p.m
OnlineManabowls.com

VeganBurg

VeganBurg via Yelp

Think you can’t get a burger if you’re vegan? The founders of VeganBurg set out on a mission to change exactly that, and it has become one of the most popular vegan joints in the Bay Area, earning celebrity nods from Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney. 100% plant-based and GMO-free, you can feel good about what you’re eating and how it impacts the environment. The Mini Meal includes a burger, fries with broccoli and a cookie. The other location is in Singapore, so we can rest easy that this one is located right here in the Bay.

1466 Haight St.
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m-9 p.m; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m-10 p.m
Onlineveganburg.com

Homestead

Huie D. via Yelp

Sunday supper is cozy and homey at this Piedmont neighborhood restaurant. Dishes change weekly and there is always a pasta dish (linguini with butter and parmesan cheese) made just for kiddos. For something more, they can indulge just like the grown-ups do with half-portion, half-priced three-course prix fixe dinners that include items like steak and eggs and cinnamon roll bread pudding.

4029 Piedmont Ave.
Oakland, CA
Hours: Daily 8 a.m-12 p.m (Cafe); 5 p.m-close (dinner) & 4:30 p.m-8:30 p.m (Sunday Supper)
OnlineHomesteadoakland.com

Panichito's

Mark D. via Yelp

For fast, casual, authentic Mexican food that’s more than a cheese quesadilla with beans, check out Panchito’s in North Bay. Here you can order classic favorites like carne asada and chile verde, with some pretty tasty chips and salsa on the side. Not only does the kids' menu serve up adult-sized entrees like Chile Relleno and tamales, they also feature a vocabulary key for bitty diners who want to try out their Spanish. De nada!

667 De. Gando Rd.
San Rafael, CA
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m-9 p.m & Sat., 12 p.m-9 p.m
OnlinePanchitosrestaurant.com

Tap 415

Tap 415 via Yelp

Take the kiddos to Westfield Mall (next to Nordstrom’s) after some back-to-school shopping or before a movie at the Metreon for some yummy comfort food. Tap 415 has a cool vibe for both adults and kids with a thought out menu designed just for them. Classics include mac n’ cheese, cheddar burgers and mini corn dogs, but the seasonal mocktails and shakes are worth saving some room for.

845 Westfield Center, 4th Floor
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m-9 p.m; Fri. & Sat., 11:30 a.m-9:30 p.m & Sun., 11:30 a.m-8:30 p.m
Onlinetap415.com

Foreign Cinema

The iconic SF restaurant draws the crowds every day, and although it’s a prime date spot, you wouldn’t believe it’s also seriously kid-friendly. The three-course prix fixe meal comes with chicken or steak, veggies, and pasta, and ends with an ice cream sundae while a feature film is shown in the background. Who knew a kids' menu could be so grown-up, but still add some fun with crayons and a coloring book?

2534 Mission St.
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Mon.-Wed., 5:30-10 p.m; Thurs.-Sat., 5:30-11 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m-2:30 p.m
OnlineForeigncinema.com

Yankee Pier

Toan D. via Yelp

Fish sticks get a much needed upgrade with fish n’ chips at Yankee Pier. This East Bay restaurant is all about sustainability and their fresh seafood from “coast to coast” makes for one delicious meal. Kids' menu features shrimp cocktail, grilled salmon, classic clam chowder, and of course, fish n’ chips. For dessert, check out the house-made butterscotch bread pudding with whipped cream, enough for the table to share.

3593 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
Lafayette, CA
Hours: Daily 11:30 a.m-9 p.m
Online: Yankeepier.com

Kasa Indian Eatery

Joanna L. via Yelp

Calling all Indian burrito fans—this place is for you! The perfect lunch on the go, these burritos come with tikka masala, curried lamb and potatoes all wrapped up nicely in a flour tortilla. For the little ones, have them try a kid-sized version with egg, rice and yogurt. Although the menu is small, it packs a big punch when it comes to flavor. They have two locations in the city and offer catering for big events.

4001 18th St.
San Francisco, CA
Hours: Daily 11 a.m-10 p.m
Online: Kasaindian.com

Oh Baby Sushi

Sandra V. via Yelp

For casual Japanese food that you’ll actually want to visit with the whole gang, this Redwood City joint makes it easy to nosh on fresh sashimi while your kiddos explore mini portions of teriyaki bento boxes, tonkastsu bowls and ramen in soy sauce broth. The outside patio is nice to enjoy on a sunny day, and if naptime is near, all items are available for take out.

2139 Roosevelt Ave.
Redwood City, CA
Hours: Tues.-Wed., 11:30 a.m-2 p.m & 4:30-9:30 p.m; Thurs., 11:30 a.m-2:30 p.m & 4:30-9:30 p.m; Fri.-Sun., 11:30 a.m-3 p.m & 4:30-9:30 p.m
Online: ohbabysushi.com

True Food Kitchen

Alan O. via Yelp

Healthy food backed by a physician gives us all the good-for-you feels. With locations in Palo Alto and Walnut Creek, True Food Kitchen is all about mingling nutrient-rich foods with flavorful combos for a meal that gives you the energy to chase those kids around for the rest of the day. Kids' menu items include almond butter, banana and apple sandwiches and chicken teriyaki bowls with brown rice and quinoa. Be sure to check out their brunch as well with yummy options of juices and smoothies, salads and grain bowls.

180 El Camino Real, Suite 1140
Palo Alto, CA
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m-9 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m-9 p.m
Onlinetruefoodkitchen.com

—Kate Loweth, Sandra Lee, Erin Feher & Mireille Schwartz

RELATED STORIES

Al Fresco Family Time: SF Eateries with Outdoor Seating

Best Themed Restaurants for an Epic Night on the Town

Over 50 Bay Area Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free

 

You did it! You’ve crossed the finish line that is the end of summer and are sending your kiddos back to school. Whether you’re a first-time mom who’s wiping away a few tears or a seasoned parent cheering in celebration, here are a handful of tweets that are all about this most wonderful time of the year.

 

1. Maybe next year.

2. And a three, four…

3. Asking for a friend.

4. There will always be glitter.

5. Oh, happy day!

6. Happy birthday to ME!

7. Yes, yes you do.

8. Truth.

9. But they look so cute!

10. 🙌

11. Enjoy it while it lasts, kids.

12. Let’s DO THIS.

13. Off to a great start!

14. What? That’s not normal?

15. So. Much.Labeling.

 

––Karly Wood

 

RELATED STORIES

20+ Funny Tweets About Traveling with Kids

20 Hilarious Tweets on Surviving Summer Break with Kids

Flamingo Witches, Cat Pools & Wet Drops of Sad: Weird Ways Kids Describe Common Things

It’s that time of year again! Summer feels like it flew by (unless you were home with your kids all summer in which case it may have slowly dragged by) and it’s time to beat the crowds and try to snatch up school supplies before they’re all sold out. It’s also time to start dragging your kid out of bed in the morning and forcing them to finish homework that you don’t understand…or is it? These tips may help make your family’s transition from summer to the school year a little bit easier!

1. Let your child pick out their own school supplies as well as some for their classroom. Some children get very excited for the start of the school year and some dread it. Regardless of your child’s feelings about school starting, allowing them to pick out their own school supplies will help to increase positive feelings about the start of the school year. Sometimes it can be tough to give your child full control over the bigger items, such as a backpack. If you find yourself wanting to choose things yourself you can narrow down the choices and allow your child to choose from your curated selection in order to still give them some control. Back-to-school shopping can even turn into a fun game by bringing your child’s school list to the store and having your child help to read, count, and keep track of the supplies while shopping. In addition to allowing your child to pick out their own supplies, suggest that they pick something out for the teacher or entire class. Bringing some “presents” to others on the first day of school will make your child feel proud and connected to their class.

2. Allow your child to keep at least one extracurricular activity or class from summer.  Switching from summer mode to school mode can be difficult for a multitude of reasons, including going from all fun activities to a day filled largely with school, which not all children consider fun. Keeping at least one extracurricular from summer will give your child something to look forward to each week. It will help your child with the transition to know that they didn’t have to give up all of their fun!

3. Spend time outside. Summer is often filled with the playground, beach trips, swimming pools, and splash pads. All of these activities have something in common—they take place outdoors. Spending time outdoors is beneficial to kids for many reasons, including getting an opportunity to move their bodies and soaking up mood-boosting Vitamin D from the sun. Going from a summer full of movement and Vitamin D to sitting at a desk inside for most of the day can be a difficult change. Allow your child time outside either before or after school so that they can continue to burn energy and get Vitamin D. It will soon start to get dark earlier, so doing this while you still can is important! consider signing up for many of the outdoor classes offered.

4. Limit homework. You’ve probably seen online or heard in-person conversations about the increasing homework load for children of all ages. Research that demonstrates the benefits of homework continues to lack, and it’s been suggested that time spent playing, such as during extracurricular classes and activities, has more benefits for children than homework. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to cut out homework completely as your child’s teacher probably won’t be willing to excuse your child. Instead of cutting it out completely, consider finding a balance that works for your family. The balance should ensure that your child does an amount of homework that feels sufficient to you, but also allows your child both free and structured playtime and does not cause your child to feel burnt out on school. A good rule of thumb to consider is 10 minutes per grade. This rule would mean that a 2nd grader completes 20 minutes of homework every night and a 5th grader competes 50 minutes. This time can consist of both homework and independent reading, which many schools require. Keeping this time frame consistent will help your child understand what is expected of them each night and may help with the dreaded “homework battle”. You can set a timer and as long as your child is working the whole time, whatever they don’t finish in that time period goes back to school incomplete. You can give your child’s teacher a heads up at the beginning of the school year to explain your household’s time limit and the reasoning behind it so they know why work may sometimes be incomplete.

5. Maintain a consistent wake-up time and bedtime. One aspect of the transition from summer to the school year that can be difficult is waking up earlier. This can be tough for both kids and parents, and creates extra stress in the morning which no one needs! The best way to combat this issue is to maintain a consistent wake-up and bedtime every day of the week, including weekends. When deciding on a schedule it is important you ensure that your child is getting enough sleep for their age. If your child is getting enough sleep for their age and you keep their sleep schedule consistent every day of the week mornings should slowly get easier for everyone.

 

This post originally appeared on Bambinoculors.
GoBambino Kids Activities
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

GoBambino helps parents discover and book kids' activities, lessons, classes, camps and workshops. Stress-free and commitment-free. We built GoBambino to simplify (ever-so-slightly) the chaotic lives of today’s moms and dads.  

Forget about back-to-school shopping, on Amazon it’s Halloween-time! Aside from all the Prime perks you can score, the mega e-retailer also happens to have a Disney shop of its very own, and now you can fill your online cart with a bounty of boo-tiful Halloween picks.

To shop Amazon’s Disney store click here. Now that you’re on the shop’s main page you can enjoy all kinds of Disney-themed merch—or you can start hunting for Halloween goodies.

 

Disney Nightmare Before Christmas Reversible Pillowcase

If you're a Nightmare Before Christmas fan, visit the shop's themed page. This two-pack of "meant to be" pillowcases ($19.99) is a seasonal sleep selection you can't pass up. 

 

Disney Parks Minnie Sequined Ear Headband

Celebrate Halloween Disney style with this sequined headband pick ($29.50). 

 

Disney Mickey Mouse Mummy Halloween Tee

It's a Mickey mummy for mommy! This tee ($19.99) is perfect for your Halloween party or to wear during trick-or-treat.

Mickey Mouse Sparkling Pumpkin

This playful pumpkin ($14) sparkles when you light it up! The batter-operated Halloween decor delight is an easy alternative to plug-in lights or a real candle. 

 

Nightmare Before Christmas Novelty Mug

Serve your guests a witch's brew in this movie-themed mug ($12.89). 

Disney Parks Maleficent Mickey Mouse Ears Headband

Themed after the movie Maleficent, these Mickey ears ($24) make a Halloween statement—without having to add an entire costume to the mix. 

 

Disney Minnie Mouse Light Up Pumpkin

The 12-inch pumpkin ($19) is the perfect no-carve decor option for Minnie fans. 

 

Disney Parks Mickey Minnie Mouse Halloween Dish Towels

Dress up your kitchen with this set of two dish towels ($30). The 100 percent cotton towels feature Mickey and Minnie as pumpkins and an orange and black pattern. 

 

Disney Minnie Mouse Luminary Kit

Light up your walkway for Halloween night with these Disney bags ($7). The kit comes with glow sticks—so you won't need to worry about real flames. 

Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Figure

Decorate your mantle with this scary-cute collectible ($23) from the Nightmare Before Christmas.

 

Finding Dory Light Up Pumpkin

Finding Dory fans will get a kick out of this light-up pumpkin decor ($9). 

 

—Erica Loop

Photos: Amazon

 

RELATED STORIES

Forget about Christmas, Now You Can Get Ugly Halloween Sweaters

Target Has New Family Halloween PJ Sets & Now You Can Own the Night

Make Your Fall Dreams Come True with This Pumpkin-Shaped Waffle Maker

If back-to-school shopping makes you want to run in the other direction (or hide your wallet somewhere safe), we’ve got good news. We’ve collected our favorite first day of school outfits from some of the best clothing lines for boys and girls alike. From Target and Primary to Old Navy, scroll through and click the items your kid likes best—our gallery of carefully curated back-to-school clothes for kids is shoppable, meaning it’s truly a one-stop shop for all your back-to-school shopping needs.

—Gabby Cullen & Kenzie Kramer

Featured image: iStock

RELATED STORIES 

First-Day Photo Ideas You Haven’t Tried Yet

Back-to-School Traditions to Start This Year

The Best Backpacks for Back to School 

Our Favorite Lunchboxes to Start the Year Off Right 

 

You’re in full-on back-to-school shopping mode, but Disney has other plans for you! The epic magic makers recently announced the release of an advent calendar—and it’s already a bestseller on Amazon!

The 2019 Disney: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar is currently available for pre-order from Amazon (with a release date of Oct. 1). So if you want the calendar in your hands right now, you’ll need to wait until it’s officially fall.

The cute countdown calendar features 24 of Disney’s “timeless tales” and has a list price of $29.99. But if you pre-order the Christmas-time pick right now, you can save 25 percent.

As if saving just over $7 isn’t enough, you may have another incentive to pre-order early. The calendar is currently the number one “Best Seller” in books, and that may mean it sells out long before you actually need it.

—Erica Loop

Photos: Amazon

 

RELATED STORIES

This Baby Celebrated Turning 2 Months with an Epic “Toy Story” Party

Kidbox Brings Mickey & Minnie to Your Door with a New Stylish Collection

“Home Alone” & “Night At the Museum” Reboots Among the Amazing Shows Coming to Disney+