After-School Special: Treats for All

Ashley O'Neill
August 23, 2012

The first week of school can be rough. For the little ones, a long morning away from home can be exhausting, and separating from mom or dad is tear-inducing (for all of us!). When the kids get older, there are lunch rooms to navigate, new teachers and classmates to meet, and a long day that is jam-packed with things to do. (And just wait until your kids get to middle school: Locker combinations! Changing classes! Whew!) We all could use a special treat on that Friday. This year, try one of these tried-and-true treats for bringing a smile to your young scholar's face.

Olliegraphic pocket mirrors 

This is just the thing to tuck into the backpack of your favorite tween girl. Personalized, sweet, practical, and easy to pick out in the lost-and-found pile.

Smencils 

These are a fun twist on school supplies, and your kids will love them. Pencils that smell like a waffle cone or cherry vanilla in their pencil box? Yes, please. Or how about a peppermint-scented one to keep their awake and sharp? Inspired!

Ugly Doll backpack fobs

Looking for something a little bit different? These backpack accessories are just the thing for boys and girls. Cute, but not cutesy, and each one comes with his own story. They are collectible, creative, and look super-cool on a backpack.

Emi Jay hair ties

These are our favorite new hair accessory. Much cuter than the normal ponytail rubberband, made with stretchy fabric and a cute tie on one end. Pick one that picks your child's favorite outfit or one that matches her hair. Best of all? No ponytail bump when you take the tie out!

Something sweet... just like your kids

This is the best kind of after-school treat, right? A drippy ice cream cone, a cookie fresh out of the oven, or a cupcake with an inch of creamy frosting. That plus a big hug is the perfect way to end the week.