The first day of school is a big day for both kids and parents. Whether it’s a child's first time starting kindergarten or the beginning of a new grade with familiar faces, the back-to-school season stirs up a mix of emotions – excitement, nerves, and a sense of new beginnings. As we get our backpacks ready and sharpen our pencils, everyone's concerned about one thing: back-to-school gifts. Whether you're a parent looking for something special for your child's classmates or a teacher searching for the perfect welcome gift for your students, we've got you covered. These gifts need not be extravagant or pricey; a simple treat or charming trinket accompanied by a cute tag can help children feel elated and even make it easier to break the ice with new friends. So, make the first day of school a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Let’s dive in!

Why Give Back-to-School Gifts?

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Are you unsure about the idea of giving back-to-school gifts? Let us assure you - it's a real thing and getting more popular every year. These small gifts can help shy kids break the ice with new classmates, boost your child's confidence and enthusiasm for the big day, and show a sense of solidarity with your child. This also adds a touch of magic to what can often be an overwhelming or anxiety-inducing experience. Plus, these gift ideas are versatile and suitable for children of all ages, from preschoolers to older elementary students.

Sticker Packs or Fun Stickers

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Grab a pack of fun stickers, ranging from unicorns and trucks to animals and space themes. These make for the perfect way to add a touch of joy and excitement to anyone's day. And the best part? They're affordable, colorful, and mess-free! Consider cutting the sticker sheets into smaller sets or finding mini sticker books at your local dollar store or party aisle. Then, attach a tag that reads Let's Stick Together This Year! You can print the tag on brightly colored cardstock for an extra pop of fun. Toss the stickers into a small envelope or bag and secure the tag with a staple or tape for a cute and hassle-free gift.

Colorful Highlighters

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Another cute back-to-school gift idea is highlighters. Perfect for kids in third grade and beyond, these vibrant tools are sure to bring a smile to their faces. Whether giving one to each student or dividing a large pack among classmates, adding a cute tag with ribbon or washi tape that reads You're the Highlight of My Day! is guaranteed to make their day even brighter.  Not only do highlighters come in handy for schoolwork, but their bright and playful colors perfectly match the back-to-school season. Plus, if you're on a budget, you can easily find great deals on multipacks at stores like Walmart, Target, or Amazon.

Pencils or Pens

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Cute pencils – whether glittery, patterned, or themed – are always a win. Simply attach a tag that reads Let's Start this Year Off Write! or New Pencils, New Pages, New Adventures and you're all set. And if you want to add an extra touch, consider adding pencil toppers or grips for an extra special touch. Perfect for kids of all ages, this thoughtful gift is sure to make a lasting impression without breaking the bank.

Mini Hand Sanitizers or Lotion

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Upgrade your back-to-school gift game with mini hand sanitizers or lotion bottles! These practical and thoughtful gifts are perfect for anyone. Bonus points if you can find mini soap pumps in bulk! Attach a playful tag that reads I'm So Pumped to Be Your Classmate! for a fun touch. With schools placing a greater emphasis on hygiene, these gifts are both timely and greatly appreciated. Keep the presentation simple by tying the tag around the bottle or pump with ribbon, twine, or a cute rubber band for a kid-friendly look.

Kool-Aid Packets

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An easy and affordable gift option would be a single Kool-Aid packet paired with a paper straw or reusable bottle. It's the perfect present to brighten someone's day and make them feel special. And the best part? It doesn't involve any sugary treats! Kids will love the bright colors and flavors, while parents will appreciate the break from candy overload. Plus, adding a tag that says Have a Kool School Year! completes the look and adds a playful touch to your gift. To help parents out, include a label that reads Just add water! So they can easily mix up a refreshing drink for their little ones.

Cookie Treat Bags

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Treat your child’s classmates or students to a sweet surprise with cookie treat bags. Whether you bake them yourself or go for store-bought ones, this gift will always impress. For a simple yet charming presentation, place one cookie in a small treat bag or box and add a tag reading A Little Treat to Make Your First Day Sweet. Who can resist the classic, delicious goodness of cookies? If you’re concerned about allergies, opt for pre-packaged cookies with ingredient labels or choose a nut-free option. Looking for a non-food option? Consider giving a cookie-shaped eraser or toy instead. 

Goldfish Crackers

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Get ready to make a splash with this winning snack idea: Goldfish crackers. These crowd-pleasing treats are especially beloved by younger kids. Simply scoop them into clear snack bags or small cups and attach a tag that says I'm So Glad We're in the Same School! It's a playful pun and a surefire way to win over young hearts. This idea is perfect for preschool and kindergarten classrooms, where simplicity and familiarity are key. To add a touch of pizzazz, use clear cellophane bags and vibrant twist ties or ribbons - it's an effortless way to make your snack look extra special with minimal effort.

Starburst Candies

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Time for a burst of delicious flavor with Starburst candies! Create a personalized gift by packaging a few candies in a cute treat bag and adding a special tag that reads You're a Star, Friend! This simple and fun idea is perfect as a back-to-school gift and can easily be made in large quantities. Plus, it's a great option for older kids who still love the occasional treat but don't want anything too "babyish." To add a touch of creativity, pair the candies with a small pencil or a star-shaped eraser for a school-themed twist.

Crayons or Colored Pencils

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Kick off the new school year with a bright and cheerful gift - a pack of crayons or colored pencils. And don't forget to add a tag that says Here’s to a Bright School Year! for an extra touch. This idea is perfect for younger students, from preschool to second grade, and you can easily find mini packs at budget-friendly stores or in the party supply section. Your child and their friends will love having their own fresh supplies, setting them up for a successful and imaginative year ahead.

Mini Rulers or Cute Erasers

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Mini rulers, cute erasers, or even tiny pencil sharpeners are fun and functional gifts for the first day of school. They are the perfect way to say You Rule! So Glad We’re in Class Together. Not to mention, they are school-themed, practical, and gender-neutral, making them the perfect option for any student. From animal-shaped erasers to vibrant rulers, you can easily find themed versions at dollar stores or online. Plus, this idea is suitable for all age groups and is budget-friendly when putting together large quantities.

Tips for Putting it All Together

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Clear cellophane bags are a great option for packaging. Not only do they showcase your thoughtful gift, but they also make your accompanying tag really stand out. For a more polished look and added durability, consider printing your tags on cardstock. You can also try tying your tags on with twine, ribbon, or washi tape instead of stapling them. If you’re wondering where you can find printable tags, online shops like Etsy or our shop offer a wide selection of adorable printable tags. If you're feeling creative, free tools like Canva allow you to design your own tags. You can also personalize these tags with names or include your child's name on the bottom.

Conclusion:

As the summer vacations come to an end, it's time to gear up for a brand new academic year. And what better way to kick off the school year than with unique and thoughtful gifts? Don’t worry, finding the perfect back-to-school gift for classmates and students doesn't have to be overwhelming. By incorporating personalized and thoughtful touches like cute tags, you can elevate a simple gift into something truly special. From adorable sticker packs to unique erasers, there are different ways to brighten up the first day of school. Remember, it's not just about the gift itself, but the thought and effort that went into it. So let's all kick off the school year on a high note and spread some joy and excitement with these back-to-school gift ideas!

For a more memorable first day of school, you can browse our Back to School Favor Tags to complete your big day.