From backpacks to layers, here's how to head into the school year like a pro.
The first day of school is a big event, full of emotions for both kids and parents. It's a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and a little bit of nervousness. New teachers, new friends, maybe even new shoes that magically make you run faster. But for parents, it's a whirlwind of supplies, schedules, and somehow locating last year's backpack that's probably still in the trunk.
To keep the chaos in check and your mornings running semi-smoothly, we've put together the ultimate back-to-school checklist: less stress, more high-fives. Here's everything you need to help your kiddo kick off the school year feeling confident, prepared, and stylish.
Wardrobe Refresh: What They'll Actually Wear
A great outfit can set the tone for a confident start to the school year. Consider the weather and your school's dress code when choosing clothes, and start with the staples: soft tees, comfy leggings or joggers, a couple of "nice enough" tops for picture day, and outerwear they'll actually want to keep on. Appaman's Back-to-School Collection makes this easy with pieces that mix, match, and layer like a dream.
Boys' Shirts: Classic and Comfortable Start the school year with boys' tops that combine style and comfort. Whether your child prefers a classic polo, a trendy graphic tee, or a smart button-down, our collection has something for every personality. Made from breathable fabrics, these shirts stay cool and comfortable through long school days, and pair easily with any bottoms.
Boys' Pants: Ready for Action As temperatures start to drop, boys' pants are a must-have for cooler days. Our durable, easy-to-wear styles range from sporty joggers to more tailored chinos, offering the flexibility and comfort active kids need, whether they're on the playground or in class.
Girls' Leggings: Soft, Stylish, and Versatile Girls' leggings are a back-to-school staple. Crafted from soft, stretchy materials, they provide all-day comfort and easy movement, and come in a variety of colors and patterns to mix and match with our girls' tops.
Girls' Shirts: Playful and Practical Complete the look with girls' tops made from high-quality, skin-friendly fabrics that hold up to the rigors of the school day. Pair with our leggings for an easy, coordinated outfit your child will love wearing.
Light, Transitional Jackets for Boys and Girls As the seasons change, a light, transitional jacket is essential for cool mornings and unpredictable weather. For boys, lightweight yet warm options (from sporty windbreakers to classic denim jackets) layer perfectly over a shirt or hoodie. For girls, soft materials and fashionable designs complement any outfit while keeping her comfortable. These jackets are the finishing touch on a back-to-school look that holds up rain or shine.
SHOP BY BACK TO SCHOOL COLLECTION
School Supply Essentials
The backbone of a successful school year starts with having the right supplies. Check your child's school-provided list and gather the essentials:
- Notebooks and binders
- Pencils, pens, and erasers
- Crayons, markers, and colored pencils
- Scissors and glue sticks
- A pencil case to corral it all
- A sturdy backpack and lunchbox
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
Let your kids pick a few items in their favorite colors or characters. It makes going back feel more exciting, and gives them a little ownership over the process.
Backpack & Lunch Must-Haves
A backpack that fits all the gear and their personality is non-negotiable. Make sure it's roomy enough for books, folders, a water bottle, and lunch.
If your child takes lunch to school, start planning a healthy, balanced menu with a mix of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. Lunchboxes with reusable containers are your eco-friendly best friend: add an ice pack, snacks they'll actually eat, and you're set. Prepping a grab-and-go snack bin in the pantry makes for easier mornings all around.
Labels and Personalization
Labeling your child's belongings is crucial for keeping track of everything. Personalized labels for lunchboxes, water bottles, and backpacks help prevent mix-ups and lost items. Iron-on labels for clothing make sure jackets, shirts, and shorts always find their way back home. Charging cords for tablets or devices are easy to label too, with washi tape or stickers doing double duty. To learn more about how to label kids' clothes for safekeeping, check out our blog on labeling kids' clothes.
Health, Hygiene & Tech Readiness
Hand sanitizer, tissues, and a backup face mask (if needed) are part of the school-day basics these days. Double check that any allergy plans or medications are handed in early.
If your school uses apps, tablets, or logins for anything (spoiler: they do), get that squared away before the first bell rings.
Schedules, Routines & Sanity Savers
Start adjusting your child's sleep schedule a week or two before school begins. Gradually move bedtime earlier and wake them up closer to their school-day time to ease the transition and make sure they're well-rested for day one.
Lay out outfits the night before, set up a small homework station, and load key dates into your family calendar. Yes, even spirit day. Especially spirit day.
BOYS SETS FOR EASY MORNINGS
Recess-ready and built to move, our boys' gym sets pair a soft, durable sweatshirt with matching sweatpants for a coordinated look that keeps up with monkey bars, kickball, and everything in between. Perfect for layering under a jacket on chilly mornings or wearing solo once the classroom warms up, these sets take the guesswork out of "what do I wear today?" Watch the video on the product page to see the fabric move and stretch in real life, so you know exactly how it'll hold up before it hits the playground.
Safety and Emergency Procedures
Go over safety rules, especially if your child is starting a new school or taking the bus for the first time. Make sure they know important phone numbers and what to do in case of an emergency.
Talk About the First Day
Take some time to talk with your child about what to expect. Discuss any anxieties they may have and share positive stories from your own school days. Reassure them that it's normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. A few words of encouragement go a long way toward boosting their confidence.
Style That Starts the Year Strong
We believe what kids wear on the first day sets the tone for the year ahead. Our mix of comfy fabrics, standout prints, and NYC-inspired details lets kids express themselves without sacrificing comfort or durability. Whether your little one is sporty, artsy, or somewhere in between, we've got their first-week fits on lock.
Preparing for the first day of school doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following this checklist, from gathering supplies to picking out the perfect outfit, you can help your child start the new school year with confidence and excitement.
Don't forget to check out our latest collection of boys' shirts, boys' pants, girls' leggings, and girls' shirts to make sure your child is dressed to impress on their big day. Here's to a fantastic start to the school year!
To make your back-to-school prep even easier, download and print our handy checklist below so you don't miss a thing.
When should I start back-to-school shopping?
Aim to start about four to six weeks before the first day. This gives you time to shop sales, check sizing, and avoid the last-minute scramble for sold-out styles.
What are the back-to-school clothing essentials for kids?
A solid rotation of tees, leggings or joggers, a couple of dressier tops for picture day, and a transitional jacket covers most classrooms. Add a gym set for recess and PE days, and you're set for the first few weeks.
How many outfits does my child need for school?
A good rule of thumb is five to seven mix-and-match outfits, enough to get through the week with laundry day built in.
What's the best way to label my kid's clothes and supplies?
Iron-on or sew-in labels work well for jackets, shirts, and gym clothes, while stick-on labels are easy for water bottles, lunchboxes, and backpacks. Check out our blog on labeling kids' clothes for the full breakdown.
How do I get my child back into a school routine before the first day?
Start shifting bedtime and wake-up times about one to two weeks early, moving them gradually earlier each day so the transition feels natural instead of sudden.
What should go in a back-to-school lunch bag?
Pack a mix of protein, fruit, veggies, and a treat, along with an ice pack to keep everything fresh. Reusable containers cut down on waste and hold up better than disposable bags.
Are Appaman's back-to-school clothes machine washable?
Yes, our everyday school pieces, including tees, leggings, joggers, and gym sets, are designed to be machine washable and built to handle daily wear and frequent washing.
