Back to School: The Ultimate Survival (and Style) Guide

Rebecca Risen here! Hard to believe it’s that time of year again. When I started at NKPR back in 2009, Labour Day signified the beginning of TIFF. Now as a mom of three, it’s a double whammy – back to school leading into festival season!  Summer flew by, and whether you’re ready for it or not, the back-to-school rush is officially upon us. Here’s how I’m making this time a little less chaotic 

1. Zellers

I have to start with this one because the nostalgia factor is so real for me. Growing up in Kingston, going to Zellers was a ritual – not only to go on the rides, but filling my red basket with everything I’d need to have the coolest pencil case. Now I get to watch as my kids do the same. They couldn’t get enough of the massive Crayola selection and the cute printed lunchbags. They also begged me for new pyjamas which I guess counts as a back-to-school staple? It felt special to be starting the same ritual with my kids that I did. 

2. On Running Shoes

If your kids are anything like mine, they NEVER. STOP. MOVING. So a good quality pair of shoes is non-negotiable. Enter On running shoes. Not only are they super chic (best colour combos!), but they also offer incredible support for all-day racing/monkey bar/jungle gym/octopus action.

3. @littlesorted on Instagram

If you’re not following @littlesorted yet, consider this your official PSA. It’s the best place to find the most thoughtfully curated selection of kids’ items. Think of it as your friend who scrolls the whole internet so you don’t have to, finding the best pieces (and often on sale!), and linking everything so effortlessly. 

4. A Pre-School Year Feast at Dynasty

We love a tradition in our family, and a back-to-school dinner at Dynasty in Bloor-Yorkville is a non-negotiable. The kids love the food, but they’re almost equally are obsessed with the lazy Susan which helps them easily access their beef and broccoli and chow mein. They don’t mind the trip to Kith for ice cream afterward either 😉 

5. Camp Snap Camera

In a world full of screens, the Camp Snap Camera is a game-changer. It’s a screen-free digital camera that lets kids capture all their favorite school memories without getting glued to a display. It brings back that vintage disposable camera vibe, minus the hassle of developing film.

HAPPY BACK TO SCHOOL! 

By Rebecca Risen, SVP