Our favorite back-to-school ideas for parents
For kids, back-to-school season can be bittersweet. Getting shiny new school supplies and seeing your friends every day? Great! Waking up early and having to do homework? Not so great.
For parents, however, this time of year is perfect for those memory-making, photo-taking moments, along with finding ways to get your kids excited about a new school year. And with this roundup of back-to-school ideas for parents—think simple DIYs, the coolest lunch ideas and more—we’re making it full of fun and hassle-free.
Inspired? Create and share by tagging @HallmarkStores.
Send love with free, printable lunch notes
Surprise them on their first day back, a big test day, or just a Monday with these sweet little notes.
Decorate lunch bags to brighten their day
Some cut paper, a few markers and a glue stick is all it takes to make these adorable lunch bags. Who knows what fun surprises wait inside?
Make magnets to spotlight their best work
Whether it’s a great work of art or a work of great effort, give it pride of place on the fridge with these cute back-to-school DIY magnets.
Capture the moment with a back-to-school zine
This free, printable back-to-school mini booklet (aka zine) is a fun way to record their thoughts and feelings at the start of the year.
Show some teacher appreciation with an adorable DIY
Guess what? We’ve got a free DIY teacher appreciation zine, too! It’s such a cute way to present some sweet thoughts to their favorite teacher. Add flowers for extra thoughtfulness.
Keep kids feeling appreciated, loved and encouraged all year long with these ideas:
- Rewards for kids: 10 parents share their tips for celebrating achievements
- Encouraging words for kids: Celebrating courage, kindness, confidence and teamwork
- Share the love: Teaching kids about kindness
- Free printable classroom posters to brighten the school day
Shop Back to School
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