PIKA Picks: Canadian Back to School Essentials

Posted: September 8, 2021

It's that time of year again! With summer slowly coming to a close and fall fast approaching, the kids need to start getting things ready for heading back to school.

There's no doubt that it's been a strange year and a half - pandemics have a way of doing that, so we wanted to help get the kids excited about getting back to a (semi) normal class experience through highlighting some Canadian items they'll love.

Check out our list below of the essentials!

1. Backpack

It's definitely been a while since the daily treks to school with stuffed backpacks, and to start this new adventure, why not pick up a new one? Canadian brand Parkland offers the cutest kids bags all made from 100% recycled water bottles. Find them in-store at staples, Indigo, BestBuy, Sport Chek, and more.

2. Lunchbox

Is the old lunchbox looking a little tired? Check out Lunch Porter - your one-stop shop for food on the go! Not only do they offer sustainable, eco-intelligent carriers, but also snack bags, utensils, containers, and beyond for all the lunch necessities.

3. Sun Shirt

Though summer vacation may be over, the sun will still be hanging around. Keep the kids safe during recess with a PIKA UPF 50+ Sun Shirt - it can double as a cool long-sleeve top for everyday wear, and a safety garment. 

4. Labels and Nametags

Of course, what would school be without the inevitable lost item on the first day? Avoid these mishaps this year by picking up some custom labels for the kids from Mabel's Labels. Made by a Canadian, women-led company, these adorable tags will get your kids excited about coming home with both shoes. 

5. Underwear

Face it, being a kid is busy work. Between adventures at recess, building friendships, school work and lunch time, there's absolutely no room for uncomfortable, non-breathable underwear. Thankfully, we have the perfect solution. Head over to PIKA for some super soft Kids Underwear. They're incredibly cozy and made of OEKO-TEX Standard-100 certified (rayon) of bamboo. That means no harmful chemicals against their little bums. Offered in Boys and Girls cuts, they'll be all set for school with comfort. Pro Tip: Don't forget to back some backups in their backpacks for a rainy day. You'll thank us later. 

6. Mask Lanyards

Help your kids hang on to their masks by grabbing them some personalized mask lanyards from Canadian company Jack and Jilly Designs. With customizable options for colour, name, and size, the kiddos can stay safe in style!

7. Water Bottle

Beat fatigue and dehydration this school year with a new water bottle from Grosche. Not only do they offer insulated, BPA-free kids bottles, but they are B Corp certified - meaning that as a company they meet the highest standards for social and environmental impact.

8. Cozy PJs

After a long day at school, the kids will likely be tuckered out. Have a cozy pair of PJs ready for them at home so that they can stay comfy while doing their homework. Grab a pair of PIKA Shorties for the warm autumn evenings and some Long PJs for the chilly winter nights.

9. Hat

To ensure maximum sun protection, wearing a hat isn't a bad place to start. For awesome print caps, take a look at Canadian brand Headster who offers sizes for toddlers all the way to adults!

10. Hand Sanitizer

Whether for pre-snack time or just mid-day, having some hand sanitizer around is always a good idea. Secure the kids with some sustainably packaged, all natural hand sanitizer from Canadian company Paume. Not only is this solution packaged in a sleek bottle and filled with deliciously-scented essential oils, but it also packs a punch, killing 99.9% of harmful germs and bacteria all while hydrating the hands using plant based emollients.

Got more ideas? Let us know down below!