The Best Back-to-School Gifts for Every Kid, Tween, and Teen

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Back-to-school season is just about here. You've probably already done some of your back-to-school shopping for supplies like backpacks, lunch boxes, pencils, and other essentials. If you're looking to make this school year truly special, consider grabbing a back-to-school gift to get your children excited about the upcoming year. We've got plenty of ideas for back-to-school gifts for everyone, from kids embarking on their very first day of school all the way up to college students.

Buying something fun is a great way to start the year on a positive note. We've got educational games that inspire creative play, gifts that help your teens stay focused, and practical items like backpacks and water bottles that feel extra-special. We also have thoughtful gifts that remind your children that they're loved and supported. The start of a new school year is a big transition, but a little gift helps it feel less daunting.

Looking for back-to-school gifts for teachers? Be sure to check out our roundup of the best teacher appreciation gifts. We also have plenty of back-to-school bulletin board ideas and creative DIY back-to-school activities to explore.

Back to School Matching Wish Bracelets Set

This is a sweet gift for a kid who's anxious about attending school this fall. The matching set comes with two bracelets to remind them that you're always thinking of them. It's also available in designs featuring dinosaurs, elephants, and butterflies.

Monogrammed Bag

This monogrammed case is perfect for corralling pens and pencils, toiletry items, charging cables, or other small essentials she doesn't want to float around in her backpack. It measures 8.3 by 3.5 by 4.9 inches and is easy to wipe clean.

Large Bancroft Backpack

Get your tween or teen excited to head back to school with this elevated backpack from Vera Bradley. It has plenty of storage space for books, binders, laptops, and other essentials. It's available in 24 different colors and patterns and is easy to clean if things get messy.

Motivational Bookmarks, 100-Count

If you're a teacher who wants to get something for your students to welcome them to the classroom, these bookmarks are perfect. They start the year on a positive note by reminding your students you believe in each and every one of them. Plus, they won't strain your budget at less than $10 for a pack of 100.

Marvel Avengers Kids Water Bottle with Straw Lid

He'll be thrilled to head to school this fall and show off his Avengers-themed water bottle. There are also designs featuring Disney princesses, Star Wars characters, Mickey Mouse, and a variety of other popular children's characters.

Back To School Rice Crispy Treats

Back-to-school season just got a whole lot sweeter! These pre-made rice crispy treats can be customized with your children's names or any other text up to eight letters.

Sleep Mask

Send your college student to the dorms with this luxe sleep mask designed to help them get a good night's sleep, even if their roommate leaves the lights on all night. It features contoured cups to block the light out comfortably and a gel filling that can be heated or cooled.

Silicone Case Compatible with Apple AirTag Tracker

Tired of hearing "Mom, where's my [backpack / pencil case / tablet / lunchbox]?" Grab a few Airtags, pop them into these cute silicone holders and attach them to your family's most-used items so they're never lost for long. You can thank us later.

Science Kit for Kids

Foster their love of science with this kit, which allows them to do more than 100 science experiments. It's designed for kids ages 8 to 14 and allows them to create an underwater volcano, make their own bath bombs, and create rainbow crystals.

Children's Book Boxes

If you're looking to encourage a love of reading, a children's book subscription box is an easy and fun way to do so. OurShelves curates a collection of diverse children's books, with packages designed for children 0-2, 2-5, and 5-8 years old. Boxes arrive quarterly and come with one or three books, depending on the subscription tier.

Bluetooth Headphones Over-Ear

If your preteen or teen has trouble focusing on homework, a pair of headphones to block out household noise might be the perfect solution. This pair is affordable and has more than 55,000 5-star ratings on Amazon. Customers say this pair is easy to use and has a convenient carrying case.

2025 17-Month Academic Softcover Spiral Planner

This pretty planner is perfect for helping her keep track of due dates, upcoming quizzes, and social events. It spans 17 months, so it'll get her through the end of the school year and then some. It measures 8.5 inches by 6.25 inches.

Back To School Beauty Basics Sampler Kit

If they're serious about their skincare routine, they'll be thrilled to unpack this sampler kit. It comes with a TikTok-approved moisturizer, sunscreen, pimple patches, body scrubs, and more.

Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set

Got a budding artist on your hands? Encourage them to express themselves with this incredible set of crayons, pencils, and markers from Crayola. It also comes with plenty of paper to get you started.

Math Dice Junior Game

Prove to them that math can be fun with this simple game that sharpens their math skills and teamwork skills. "Great tool for math. My daughter has fun practicing her addition and subtraction skills," shared one reviewer.

Mella Ready to Rise Children's Alarm Clock

This alarm clock will help get everyone up and out the door on school mornings. It also has other helpful features, like a color-changing light to communicate to your child when they wake up, whether it's time to stay in bed or get up.

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