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Get Ready for Back to School with These Essentials

Back to School

Welcome to the 2016 Back to School Essentials List! Mama Smith’s is bringing you everything that you need for a successful year at school! Back to school can be stressful for parents as well as kids – so I have put together some items that will make getting ready easier and quicker! Each item on this guide was personally tested and/or approved by Mama Smith’s. Please enjoy and remember to keep coming back because new items are added daily! This guide may contain affiliate links. 

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Teach My KindergartenerTeach My Learning Kits

Teach My Kindergartener is the newest all-in-one learning kit designed for ages 4+. The kit contains unique and coordinated tools to teach spelling, money, telling time and the year. Your kindergartener can master 100 spelling words, counting money, analog and digital time as well as days of the week, months of the year, dates, years, weather and seasons. Each set in the kit is fully coordinated to encourage matching and repetition. The Teach My Kindergartener learning kit is designed to be screen-free, one-on-one learning time. The kit aims to promote school readiness and a head start for kindergarten, in just 20 minutes a day. Teach My also has these kits for Baby, Toddler, and Preschooler available as well as bathtime kits! Check them out a Target near you or on Amazon!

Find Where to Purchase at  a Target Near You Here
Read Our Reviews: Teach My Learning Kits Spotted at Target
Enter to Win a Kit Here: Teach My Kindergartener Learning Kit
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BixbeeBixbee Backpacks

Bixbee designer backpacks are specifically designed for kid’s unique measurements. These bright and tough-built backpacks are backed by a limited life-time warranty. Tailor-designed in 3 sizes, Bixbee backpacks feature a patented horizontal design to carry weight above waist level. Their unique shape provides easy access to books and supplies with laptop/tablet protection in the medium and large sizes. With Bixbee’s “One Here. One There.” initiative a school bag filled with supplies will be donated to a child in need with every bag purchased. My daughters love theirs and cannot wait to show them off at school next year!

Purchase Here
Use code BIXBEESUMMER for 20% off your purchase!
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WAFF NotebooksWAFF Notebooks

Inspired by the grid of a waffle the WAFF Notebook comes with 2 Clips on the side that can be used to customize the book as well as to keep it closed; you can clip them anywhere on the WAFF cover. These notebooks are way cool and any kid would love to have them for the upcoming school year!

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WordWorldWordWorld: It’s Time for School

When its Ducks turn for show-and-tell at school, he wants to bring the thing he loves best his nest! But when the nest breaks apart into letters, will Duck be able to retrieve them all in time? This DVD is a great way to show kids that school can be fun – and to get them spelling in time to start this fall! WordWorld airs on PBS Kids.

Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews: It’s Time For School with WordWorld: New on DVD 7/26
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L'il Critters Gummy VitesL’il Critters Gummy Vites

L’il Critters Gummy Vites is the #1 children´s gummy multivitamin. Kids love the great taste, naturally sourced flavors and the fun gummy bear shape. Parents can trust that kids are getting essential vitamins and minerals to support and maintain healthy growth and development. They are made in the USA with naturally sourced cherry, berry, and citrus flavors. My girls love them – and I love them too! No more arguing to take their vitamins. A great way to start every school day!

Purchase Here
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Sneaky ChefSneaky Chef No-Butter

Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butter is a delicious peanut-butter alternative made from naturally sweet and “nutty” tasting yellow peas, but without a trace of peanuts, tree nuts, seeds, or soy.   Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butters are produced in a nut-free facility and are all natural, soy free, gluten-free and contain no high fructose corn syrup, no hydrogenated oils and no artificial colors or flavors. Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butter is available in two varieties, Sneaky Chef Smooth No-Nut Butter and Sneaky Chef Chocolate No-Nut Butter, both available in 18 ounce jars as well as 6 ounce grab-and-go cups and is an indulgent peanut butter alternative that is so good, everyone will love it, allergies or not!

Find where to Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews:
Must Have Snacks for Back to School
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sneaky chef chocolateSneaky Chef Chocolate No-Butter

A delicious combination of chocolate with a peanut-butter alternative made from naturally sweet and “nutty” tasting yellow peas – but without a trace of peanuts, tree nuts, seeds, or soy. And, the best part? NEW Sneaky Chef Chocolate No-Nut butter is so delicious – everyone will love the taste, allergies or not, and with half the sugar as Nutella it’s a less indulgent snack to enjoy! Sneaky Chef’s new Chocolate No-Nut Butter tastes like old fashioned brownie batter licked straight off the mixer – seriously, it is SO good! Sneaky Chef Chocolate No-Nut Butter is great on sandwiches, perfect for dipping pretzels, a rich icing for cupcakes – or just enjoyed straight out of the jar with a spoon! All Sneaky Chef products are 100% peanut and tree-nut free and are produced in a nut-free facility. They are all natural, soy free, gluten-free and contain no high fructose corn syrup, no hydrogenated oils and no artificial colors or flavors.

Find where to Purchase Here
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leapstartLeapFrog LeapStart Jr.

Tap into big fun with the amazing, all-in-one LeapStart interactive early learning system for Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten, jam-packed with key school and life skills for curious 2-4 year olds. The system works with a library of replayable activity books (sold separately) and comes with a Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten sampler book. The Leap Start interactive learning system is designed to help build key skills and challenge kids to get ready for their next step in learning. Get kids excited about everything from counting to creativity, phonics to problem solving, and shapes to social skills with replayable activity books bursting with fun on every page.

Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews: Kids Learn STEM, Reading, & More with the Leapfrog LeapStart 
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LeapStart SrLeapFrog LeapStart Sr.

Tap into big fun with the amazing, all-in-one leap start interactive learning system for kindergarten and 1st grade, jam-packed with key school and life skills for inquisitive 5-7 year olds. The system works with a library of replayable activity books (sold separately) and comes with a kindergarten and 1st grade sampler book. The leap start interactive learning system is designed to help build key skills and challenge kids to get ready for their next step in learning. Get kids excited about everything from STEM to social skills, reading comprehension to Communication, and problem solving to scientific thinking with replayable activity books bursting with fun on every page.

Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews: Kids Learn STEM, Reading, & More with the Leapfrog LeapStart 
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bananamilkBANANAWAVE Bananamilk

Created from one of nature’s most universally-loved fruits, the banana, BANANA WAVE bananamilk is a delicious, creamy and nutrient-filled new option. Derived from an ancient African recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation and first introduced to Fresh Start Beverage founder, Neter Alkebulan, by his own Grandmother, BANANA WAVE bananamilk begins with a universally loved fruit that is a staple in most households – bananas. In fact, because BANANA WAVE bananamilk begins with pure banana puree, one serving contains as much potassium as a small banana, 330 mg, and also contains 29 vitamins and minerals and 1200 mg of Omega-3s per serving. BANANA WAVE bananamilk is vegan, all natural, dairy, gluten and GMO free. BANANA WAVE bananamilk contains three of nature’s “superfoods” – fruit, grains and seeds – making it a nutritious option for anyone with an on-the-go lifestyle, active kids, athletes, and of course, banana lovers. It is also an ideal option for vegans, vegetarians, those managing a dairy or nut allergy or for anyone looking for a nutritious alternative milk beverage. Delicious and refreshing on its own as a snack or meal replacement, BANANA WAVE bananamilk is also perfect for smoothies, on cereal or for use in cooking and baking.

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SI_BombaySeasoning_3D-661x1024Spiced & Inflused Popcorn

Inspired by flavors from around the world, Spiced & Infused marries the whole grain goodness of popcorn with real herbs and spices and other pure ingredients to create delicious flavors that take you on a culinary adventure. The unique and delicious herbs and spices used in Spiced & Infused popcorn are known not only for their flavor, but also for their known health benefits, and provide delicious taste with less calories and fat than many other flavored popcorn options. Available in four delicious flavors – Bombay Seasoning, Chipotle Taco, Asian Barbecue, and French Herb, Spiced & Infused popcorn is a great snacking option for the whole family and is perfect for snacks, in lunchboxes, at parties or to take movie night to a whole new level.

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duck tapeDuck Tape

Available in more than 250 colors, designs and licenses, Duck Tape provides a simple, affordable way for kids to get organized, as well as transform plain school supplies into personalized creations. Decorate a tablet cover or label folders, notebooks and lunch boxes with Duck Tape Transparent Tints to add a pop of color to supplies without hiding what’s beneath. Or, use Duck Tape to revamp binders, pencil pouches and backpacks from last year, without needing to buy entirely new supplies. Use Duck Dry Erase Tape to create a custom message board for lockers or home desks, help keep track of school events and activities, or to simply create a to-do list. Get crafty and create a roll-up pencil pouch to make organizing fun with Printed Duck Tape. From “desert stars” to “zebra” prints, Duck Tape has a wide variety of styles for kids to choose from and let their personality shine through.

Purchase Here
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Purell Jelly Wraps

Purell

Purell Jelly Wraps are an essential back to school item – especially for younger kids. It is easy to pick up germs when in school. This is the perfect gift for any family member and will keep away the nasty germs this season! Purell sanitizer kills 99.99% of germs that cause disease. Purell products are perfect for practicing good hand hygiene when soap and water are not available. Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer in convenient JELLY WRAP Carriers and New Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Naturals make practicing good hand hygiene easy. Plus, they are perfect to have in your backpacks, lunchboxes and travel bags.

Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews: Sanitize Your Life with Purell

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nature nate

Nature Nate’s Honey

Nature Nate’s 100% Pure, Raw & Unfiltered Honey is now available in convenient, on-the-go packets. A superfood and natural sweetener, honey adds the perfect amount of sweetness to any meal, without overloading kids on refined sugars. Kids can drizzle the honey over everything from their morning toast or yogurt, to their iced tea.

Purchase Here
Read Our Reviews:
Nature Nate’s Honey & Syrups
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debbie lynnDebbie Lynn, Inc.

Debbie Lynn, Inc. is a renowned brand with a versatile line that includes long-lasting pens, colorful markers, trendy stationery, and sleek office supplies. The brand also carries arts and crafts supplies as well as novelties, so it can fit any need for any class.

Purchase at Five Below Stores
Read Our Reviews:
Head Back to School with Debbie Lynn | #off2school #Giveaway Hop
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CasioCasio Graphing FX-9860GII Calculator

Available in pink or gray, these advanced graphing calculators are the perfect accessory for students. In addition to the features and functionality users have always loved in Casio calculators, there are several enhancements in this model that are sure to please. The fx-9860GII allows for powerful, quick calculations on a generous screen size. It also features a new LCD backlight for superior visibility, and natural display shows expressions and results exactly as they’d appear in a textbook

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capressoCapresso On-the-Go Personal Coffee Maker

The On-the-Go Personal Coffee Maker keeps up with your busy lifestyle by quickly brewing coffee directly into the stainless steel insulated thermal travel mug so you never have to leave your brew behind. Large permanent filter can hold up to 6 tablespoons of medium ground coffee for maximum strength, adjust strength by adding less ground coffee. The On-the-Go also works with pre-packaged soft coffee pods for an even quicker brew and faster clean up. As an added convenience and safety feature, the unit automatically shuts off after the brew cycle is complete. It also includes an On/Off button to save energy when not in use. Use the mug to measure out the water before filling the water tank to ensure no coffee will overflow.

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Capresso Steel PlusCapresso H2O Steel Plus

Faster, safer and more precise than any stove top kettle, the H2O Steel PLUS features a striking stainless steel pitcher and variable temperature settings for versatility when preparing different types of teas. The Capresso H2O Steel PLUS kettle is constructed of stunning stainless steel and features four specific settings to steep different types of teas, at the perfect temperature. For lighter teas, such as white or green varieties, a lower temperature is recommended, while darker teas will extract better flavor using higher temperatures. The automatic keep warm setting keeps the remaining water at the selected temperature until you are ready for your next cup. The H2O Steel PLUS will even self-adjust if additional water is added to the kettle during the keep warm cycle. The pause and pour feature allows the user to interrupt the heating process, without resetting the cycle. In addition to heating water for tea, the H2O Steel PLUS is handy for brewing French press coffee or heating water for reconstituting dried vegetables and fruits, or with instant oatmeal, and soup mixes.

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mini drip capressoCapresso 5-cup Mini Drip

Brewing a great cup of coffee is a science. The amount of time the water is in contact with the coffee grounds directly relates to the final taste of the brew. All Capresso coffee makers brew coffee in less than one minute per cup which means coffee will never be over extracted or bitter. Black base with stainless steel accents and glass carafe with brew-through lid, Gold tone permanent filter, Drip-free pouring spout and an ergonomic handle, Programmable 24-hour timer and clock with digital LCD display, Internal water level indicator.

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kanax

EasySync iPad Mini Keyboard with Stand Cover (Kanex)

The keys are comfortable to use and just the right size for a take-with-you-anywhere keyboard. Bluetooth® 3.0 connectivity gives you the freedom to switch between your tablets, smartphones, laptops all from the comfort of one keyboard. Premium black faux-leather and soft microfiber inner lining for a soft-touch and added protection for the keyboard. The Stand Cover folds into a 60° stand for a more convenient typing experience. Powerful magnets provide enough support for most tablets up to 9” screen size.

Purchase Here


frieling handheld fanCilio Handheld Fan

This fan has flexible blades making it safe for kids of any age. Perfect for the first few weeks of school that are still hot like summer. This fan will keep kids cool as they walk around campus with it’s powerful one speed motor. The fan itself is adorable, making anyone excited to own one! 2 AA batteries included.

Purchase Here


ZK127_TravelTumbler_A

Travel Tumbler (Zoku)

Sip without spills with the Zoku 16oz. Travel Tumbler. The double-walled design keeps drinks insulated and your hands warm and dry on the outside. Sealing is a snap with the press-fit lid. And the silicone holder keeps your straw in place no matter where you take it.

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webrootWebroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus

As students head back to school with their newly purchased laptop computers (“thanks, mom and dad!”), it’s important that they take steps to bolster their personal online security. Webroot ensures threat protection for both PC & Mac computers – protect your identity while browsing, shopping, and banking – as well as social network protection including Facebook and Twitter. Set it and forget it, cloud based protection offers real-time updates to secure against known and newly discovered threats. PCMag Editors’ Choice.

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p218094bUltimate 5-in-1 Auto Safety Opener (Kuhn Rikon)

This opener does it all! Our multi-functioning opener is perfect for those everyday kitchen tasks. Its sleek and clever design makes opening cans of any kind, bottles, and more clean, safe, and fun! Automatically attaches itself to cans. No sharp edges. Open items with little effort. Opens everything cans, bottles, pop and pull tops and more. Hygienic – opener never touches the contents of the can.

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Hairbanglezhairbanglez miniZ

hairbanglez, a new line of the patented bangle bracelets that stores and conceals your hair tie in a truly fashionable way, has added the miniZ Collection for younger fashionistas to its hugely successful hairbanglez line. hairbangle miniZ provide bangle sizes for girls looking to start good habits early, and will protect their wrists in color-popping style. hairbangle miniZ are made of 100% silicone, providing more elasticity and softness for young girls’ fragile wrists. They look great paired with personal jewelry or stacked together, and can be collected or traded with friends in fun fashion. hairbanglez miniZ are available in 14 fun, bright colors. Like the complete hairbanglez line, each hairbangle miniZ has perfectly spaced, patented scalloped indents to provide easy access of the hair elastic from the bangle, holds one thin or thick hair elastic in place and eliminates the red indent caused by wearing an elastic directly on your wrist. My 5 year old is always trying to be like her mommy and putting hair elastics on her wrist – now we are both using hairbanglez and loving them!

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ChocChunkCookieOtis Spunkmeyer’s New No Funky Stuff Line

Otis Spunkmeyer was one of the original sweet treat brands, with their famous cookies launching in the 70’s. Their new commitment to using better-for-you ingredients – or ‘No Funky Stuff’ – means that Otis Spunkmeyer’s cookies, frozen cookie dough, and new snack cakes, cupcakes and muffins are all delivering on a superior tasting treat that kids and parents love! It’s a promise to parents that their all-new retail line of 20+ cookies and sweet treats is made without artificial flavors or colors, high-fructose corn syrup or partially hydrogenated oils. It’s the perfect snack for back-to-school parents can feel good about.

Find Where to Purchase Here
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noodlesRevolution Foods Ready-to-Eat Noodles

Back to school time is always busy, and In a Cup makes it easy to pack healthy lunches kids (or the whole family) will love to eat. These include real vegetables, no artificial flavors or preservatives, and at least 8 grams of whole grains per pack! Not to mention, they are delicious! My husband has taken these to work for lunch, and has now added them to our shopping list. Three flavors kids love to choose from, with a gluten free and nut free option: Sesame Noodles, Spaghetti Marinara, Thai-Style Satay Rice Noodles.

Find Where to Purchase Here
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SophiasStyleNautica Girls Uniforms (Sophia’s Style)

These Nautica Girls Uniforms are perfect for back to school. Whether your child’s school requires them or not, they are stylish and well made. My girls cannot wait to show them off to their friends! The khaki sleeveless jumper dress features princess seams and drop waist, button detail and pleats. Zipper back for easy dressing. The navy cap sleeved dress features ruffles at the button placket and drop waist design with ruffle hemline. She’ll look great for classroom and playground wearing this trendy polo dress.

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UntitledAquarella Back to School Set (Sophia’s Style)

Get ready to send them Back To School with this 3 pcs Set from Aquarella Kids. The set contains a Spacious Backpack, a Cute Lunch Box  and an Entertaining Pencil Box. All come with the same bright and colorful pattern that will always put a smile on their faces. There are many different designs to choose from. My daughter was so excited to see her new set to take to school this year!

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lunchboxAquarella Lunchboxes (Sophia’s Style)

Send them to school in style with this fun Lunch Box from Aquarella Kids! The bright and colorful pattern will always put a smile on their faces and what’s inside the bag will put love in their tummy. There are many adorable styles and designs to choose from, so you are sure to find something for every kid in your life!

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915tw098XPL._SL1500_Sharpie Extreme

Permanent markers are an essential part of back-to-school shopping lists for middle school, high school and college students. The new Sharpie Extreme permanent markers deliver bold color that can be used on a variety of surfaces including text book covers, backpacks, helmets and lunch boxes without the worry of fading especially when exposed to UV rays, rain, snow and even mud.

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Kohls CaresKohls Cares Back To School

The newest Kohl’s Cares collection features Clifford The Big Red Dog and is available now through September. The collection includes a backpack, creativity kit, toys, and hard covered books to promote summer reading. The charming stories of the larger-than-life canine focus on kindness and send a positive message to young readers. Parents can also feel good about purchasing the pieces that are priced at only $5 each, with 100 percent of the net profit benefiting children’s health initiatives nationwide.

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hi chewHi-Chew

With summer quickly coming to a end, the school year is just around the corner. When planning your next shopping spree for back-to-school snacks for the kids, add HI-CHEW candy to your list. The kid-friendly, parent approved pick is sure to give your kid an instant boost. Perfect for the lunch box or even just a mid-day treat, the delightfully chewy, natural fruit flavors of HI-CHEW will brighten any child’s day. Surprisingly satisfying and easy to eat, HI-CHEW snacks deliver a unique taste and texture that are sure to become an essential part of your shopping list and kid’s snacks. This gluten free, nut free candy will have your kids enjoying a flavorful moment, with varieties including mango, cherry, strawberry, banana, grape, green apple and melon. If you’re looking for a unique taste, try newly introduced HI-CHEW Sours. This mix of citrus flavors will elevate your HI-CHEW flavor experience. These flavors include lemon, lime and the customer favorite grapefruit.

Find Where to Purchase Here
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