Then we send all of it to school with them.

Back-to-school shopping usually focuses on what kids need for the year ahead, but it’s also a good time to talk about how they’re going to take care of it. For kids and teens with lockers, learning to keep their belongings secure is a small but important part of becoming more responsible for their own stuff.

That’s where a basic back-to-school essential like a Master Lock combination lock comes in.

School Lockers Hold a Lot More Than Notebooks

Depending on the student, a locker might hold everything from textbooks and school supplies to headphones, calculators, clothing and sports gear.

And then there are gym and athletic lockers, where kids may be leaving shoes, uniforms, bags and personal belongings while they’re in class or at practice.

Master Lock offers a collection of combination locks designed for lockers and other everyday personal uses, giving families several options depending on what their child needs.

It’s a simple lesson worth teaching early: if something is important enough to bring with you, it’s worth taking a few seconds to secure it.

No Key to Keep Track Of

Kids can remember an impressive amount of information when they want to.

The location of a tiny locker key? That’s sometimes another story.

One of the biggest conveniences of a combination lock is that there’s no separate key to carry around, lose or accidentally leave sitting on the kitchen counter.

Master Lock offers both traditional preset combination locks and set-your-own combination options. Some use the familiar round number dial many parents probably remember from their own school days, while others allow users to create their own number or letter combination.

That gives families the ability to choose the style that makes the most sense for their child.

There Isn’t Just One Type of Combination Lock

One look at Master Lock’s collection makes it clear that the classic school locker lock has evolved.

There are traditional dial combination locks, set-your-own combination locks and even letter combination options. Different models are available in a variety of sizes, designs and colors, including bright shades that can make a lock easier to identify on a row of lockers.

Depending on the model selected, Master Lock combination locks may also include features such as hardened steel shackles and other design elements intended to provide added durability and security.

That variety matters because the best lock for a middle school locker isn’t necessarily the same one a teenager might choose for a gym bag, athletic locker or another personal use.

A Little Practice Before the First Day Goes a Long Way

If your child has never used a combination lock before, don’t wait until the first day of school to introduce it.

Anyone who remembers middle school probably also remembers the slight panic of standing in front of a locker while other students are rushing through the hallway and suddenly forgetting whether you’re supposed to turn the dial right, left or right again.

Have kids practice opening and closing their lock at home until they can do it comfortably.

For a set-your-own combination model, help them choose something they’ll remember without picking a code that’s too obvious. For a preset lock, keep a record of the combination somewhere safe at home.

Master Lock also offers an online option for registering combinations, which can come in handy if a combination is forgotten later.

Let Them Pick One They’ll Actually Remember

Here’s one back-to-school decision that doesn’t have to turn into a parent-versus-kid debate.

Master Lock offers locker combination locks in a variety of colors and styles, so kids can have some say in choosing theirs.

A bright color can add a little personality to an otherwise boring school supply, but it can also serve a practical purpose. When a hallway is lined with lockers that all look exactly alike, a recognizable lock can make it easier to spot the right one.

And if letting your child choose purple instead of silver means they’re a little more excited about actually using it, that’s a pretty easy win.

It’s About More Than Protecting Stuff

A locker lock is also a small lesson in independence.

As kids get older, parents gradually hand over responsibility for more of the things we’ve been managing for them. They remember their own homework. They keep track of practice schedules. They bring home the sweatshirt they took to school.

Well, ideally.

Remembering a combination, locking a locker and keeping track of personal belongings are small responsibilities, but they’re still responsibilities.

It’s one more opportunity for kids to learn that taking care of their belongings is ultimately part of taking care of themselves.

Don’t Forget Sports, Gyms and Activities

Combination locks aren’t limited to the school hallway.

Depending on the model, Master Lock’s personal combination locks can be used for lockers, backpacks, duffel and sports bags, cabinets and other personal storage needs.

That makes them useful well beyond the first day of school. A child who uses one for a school locker today may eventually need another for an athletic locker, recreation center, gym or other activity.

Choosing the right lock comes down to where it will be used and the level of security needed, which is why Master Lock offers several different styles rather than a one-size-fits-all option.

Add Security to the Back-to-School Checklist

Back-to-school season is full of opportunities to help kids become a little more independent. They learn to manage schedules, keep track of assignments, remember what they need for practice and take more responsibility for the things that belong to them.

The Master Lock combination lock collection gives families plenty of options for adding a little security to that routine, whether your child prefers a traditional dial, a set-your-own combination or something with a little more personality.

It may be one of the smallest things you buy for the school year, but it teaches a pretty useful habit: lock it up before you walk away.

Because replacing a pencil is one thing. Replacing everything else that was sitting beside it is an entirely different back-to-school expense.

The post Back-to-School Security 101: The Small Essential That Helps Kids Protect Their Stuff appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The perfect standing desk

As families prepare for back-to-school season, Hulala’s thoughtfully designed furniture helps create flexible, organized spaces for homework, school projects, and collaborative learning. The Veritas 360° Rotating Standing Desk features a rotating side desktop that easily adapts for independent study or working side-by-side with classmates, siblings, or parents. Integrated power, hidden cable management, and enclosed storage keep supplies neatly organized, while whisper-quiet electric height adjustment (31″–49″), three memory presets, and a sedentary reminder promote comfort during long study sessions. Built with durable engineered wood and metal, the spacious desktop supports up to 200 lbs and is backed by a comprehensive five-year warranty.

Use Code: MYHULALA12 for 12% off

The best in back to school kids fashion

Appaman’s New Arrivals bring fresh, playful style to kids’ fashion with irresistibly soft fabrics and standout prints. Known for bold colors, comfortable fits, and durable construction, Appaman designs clothing that keeps up with active kids while still looking effortlessly cool. From graphic tees and joggers to versatile outerwear, each piece is crafted for everyday comfort and easy movement. Parents love the machine-washable, kid-tested fabrics, while little ones love the fun, expressive designs. Whether dressing for school, play, or special occasions, Appaman’s latest collection offers modern, stylish essentials that make getting dressed enjoyable for the whole family.

Use Code: FIRSTDAYAKA20 20% off a full-price order 

Keep your kids safe this year

The Bark Watch helps kids stay connected while giving parents tools to help keep them safer- without the distractions and risks that can come with a smartphone. Real-time GPS location tracking lets parents check their child’s location from the Bark parent app, while the SOS button gives kids a quick way to reach help in an emergency.Built-in content monitoring scans for potential concerns like bullying, predators, and self-harm, alerting parents when something may need their attention. Kids can talk and text with approved contacts, without games, social media, or web browsing competing for their attention.Durable and water-resistant, the Bark Watch gives parents greater peace of mind while giving kids a little more independence.

Use Code: B2SCHOOL30 (valid through 8/31/26)

Recycled Double Pocket Backpack 

Made from recycled water bottles, our medium-size Recycled Double Pocket Backpack is a practical choice for kids on the move. With its spacious two-compartment design, it offers ample storage for school supplies, snacks, and more. Plus multiple pockets, clips, and holders make it easy to keep their belongings organized. Adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit, making this backpack an ideal companion for any adventure. This backpack comes in 2 sizes with the Small size being perfect for Kindergarten through 2nd grade and the larger size for children 2nd grade and up.

A Must-Have Hair Conditioner: Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner

Hydrate, smooth, and fight frizz with the Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner. Made with jojoba oil and aloe extract, this lightweight formula helps soften, nourish, and refresh dry or damaged-looking hair without flaky buildup or residue. Perfect for making busy back-to-school mornings quicker and easier, it leaves hair feeling softer, smoother, and more manageable. sleekehair.com

Readers can receive 50% off the Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner with the exclusive code BTS50.

Shop Now 

DREAM PAIRS KIDS Lightweight Slip On Sneakers

Designed for kids who are always on the move, DREAM PAIRS KIDS Lightweight Slip-On Sneakers deliver effortless comfort, independence, and all-day playability. Weighing only 3.7 ounces per shoe, these ultra-light sneakers help reduce foot fatigue so little explorers can run, jump, and play freely from the playground to family outings. The breathable mesh upper and airflow channels help keep feet cool and comfortable, even during active days, while the easy slip-on design allows kids to put them on independently and build confidence with every step. A flexible forefoot construction supports natural movement, and a reinforced toe cap adds protection against everyday bumps. Lightweight, practical, and adventure-ready, these sneakers are the perfect everyday companion for growing feet.

Fight the back to school sicknesses with Boiron USA

Back-to-school season brings new routines, busy schedules — and sometimes flu-like symptoms. At the first sign of body aches, headache, fever, chills, or fatigue, reach for Oscillococcinum® and feel like yourself again. Brought to you by @BoironUSA. Oscillo helps reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms.* The convenient meltaway pellets come in single-dose tubes and dissolve in the mouth, making them easy to take at home or on the go. Recommended for everyone ages 2 and up, Oscillo is non-drowsy and has no known interactions with other medications or supplements. Learn more at Oscillo.com.

*These “Uses” have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Use Code: OscilloBTS26 for 20% off any Oscillo product on BoironUSA.com. Valid August through November 2026.

Be prepared for school sports

Shibumi Park Vista™ (MSRP $240) reinvents off-beach shade. At under 5 lbs, it’s up to 10x lighter than traditional 30-50 lb pop-up tents yet sets up solo in two minutes — no wrestling poles or waiting on a second person. It packs into a slim 26″ bag for easy trunk storage, shades up to four people comfortably, and features UPF 50+ water-resistant fabric with an adjustable canopy that tracks the sun. Modular by design, multiple units connect for scalable coverage at sidelines, parks, and outdoor events.

Easy feeding options

Haakaa creates practical, thoughtfully designed products that help make everyday parenting simpler. For the back-to-school season, the Haakaa Silicone Yummy Pouch offers a convenient way to pack purées, yoghurt, smoothies and more. This reusable 4.5 oz pouch gives parents flexibility over food and ingredient choices while helping reduce spending on individually packaged snacks and cut down on packaging waste. Its leakproof lid, variable-flow spout and dishwasher-safe, food-grade silicone design make feeding, carrying and cleaning easy.

Must Haves for your school supply list

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Stainless Steel 13 oz Food Jar (SDS Direct) – Reusable, eco-friendly food jar keeps food hot or cold. Premium food grade 18/8 stainless steel, contains no phthalates, BPA, lead, or PVC.  $19.99 

Daniel Goes to School (Simon & Schuster) – Daniel learns that “grown-ups come back” and has lots of fun with his teacher and classmates. Ages 2-4, $12.99 

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Mini Backpack 12” 3D Character Plush Bookbag (Intimo) – Backpack features 3D Daniel Tiger face with dimensional ears, embroidered facial details, two zippered compartments, and padded adjustable shoulder straps. Ages 3+, $39.99 

Get the must-have back-to-school essentials – paper towels that handles every mess busy school days brings

For families this back-to-school season, stock up on Viva Signature Cloth Triple Roll (129 sheets), which offer more sheets per roll and fewer replacements during hectic school days. Viva Signature Cloth is cloth-like, making it tough on sticky messes like apple juice spills and crafts, while soft enough for kids’ hands and faces. 

A bathroom must-have!

The Squatty Potty Toilet Stool is designed to help support a more natural, comfortable posture while using the bathroom. By elevating your feet, it helps align your body for a more complete and efficient experience. It is clinically proven to decrease time spent on the toilet and increase elimination to feel emptier! It’s sleek, compact design fits neatly around most toilets, making it an easy addition to any bathroom. Durable, easy to clean, and available in multiple styles and heights, it’s a simple everyday wellness upgrade for the whole family.

Squatty Potty Flushable Wipes provide a gentle, refreshing clean with every use. Made with plant-based fibers and infused with soothing aloe and vitamin E, they’re soft on skin while helping you feel fresh and confident. Septic-safe and designed to break down after flushing, they’re a convenient addition to any bathroom routine. Pair them with your favorite Squatty Potty product for an elevated bathroom experience.promo code BACK2STOOL

The school year always seems to arrive faster than expected, but having the right products on hand can help make those early mornings, homework sessions, and after-school activities run more smoothly. Whether you’re checking off your family’s shopping list or looking for a few new favorites, these back-to-school essentials are designed to simplify everyday life. Here’s to a successful, organized, and exciting new school year!

The post Back to School Must-Haves for the New School Year! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Whether the kids just started school or are anxiously (or not so anxiously) awaiting the first day back, you’ve probably made a list of back-to-school necessities. What that list probably doesn’t include is a way for your kids to update their schedules on their own, the perfect storage container to carry pencils and lipgloss, and a few ways to help the environment and give to those less fortunate. Our back-to-school essentials will not only give you a little more peace of mind as a parent but also encourage the kids to make their community and the world a little bit better.

Moms are experts when it comes to multitasking. You can take your daughter to ballet, get your son ready for fall ball practice, make a wholesome dinner, and do it all while planning the agenda for tomorrow morning’s work meeting. While you’re juggling the demands of everyday life though, your kids are trying to accomplish their own tasks as well, especially difficult and often tedious homework assignments. That’s why the Netgear Around Town Mobile Internet is such a lifesaver. While your daughter dances away at ballet practice, your son can work on all of his school assignments, including the ones that require the Web. This no-commitment 4G LTE mobile hotspot gives you high-speed Internet connection anywhere for up to ten hours. The hotspot can connect up to ten devices so everyone, including a busy mom, can take advantage of the fast connection.

While the Netgear mobile hotspot will keep your family connected, the Cozi app will keep everyone in the know about each other’s lives day to day. Any family member with the app can add or change the schedule, make requests for the grocery list, and even add recipes at the touch of a button. The Cozi app can be accessed from any mobile device or computer and the best part: it’s free.

For your kids not yet old enough for apps and iPhones there’s the FiLIP watch. This device serves as both a wearable phone and locator. At any time you can use the FiLIP app to find your child’s location and contact him through a call or a message. A red button on the side of the watch can be pushed at any time to signal an emergency. And yes, this “watch” is an actual watch too; it displays the current date and time on its screen.

Sure, kiddos need paper, pencils, and erasers for school but what about the fun stuff? Shopping for a Change, a nonprofit online marketplace that gives back to the artisans who create their merchandise, has a great selection of adorable backpacks and lunchboxes in their Dabbawalla line. The products, ranging from $30 to $40, are non-toxic so you’ll one less thing to worry about when it comes to your little one’s health. Though the items are a little pricey, you’ll feel good knowing that you invested in not only quality products but products that give back to the people who created them.

Your fashionable daughter will love adorning her locker with these cute decorations from LockerLookz. From wallpaper to magnets and rugs to chandeliers, LockerLookz has everything to make her space unique and completely her own. These decorations are great for any tween but would be especially good for a middle schooler looking to make her mark in a new school.

Another essential for a daughter is her own Caboodles storage. Caboodles come in a variety of designs, each one catering to a different style and age. Your young daughter will love the Oh La La option with its acrylic tote to carry school supplies and a bonus sequined pink pouch for toting lunch money and lip balm. Your high schooler or college undergrad will like the convenience of the Le Sophistique 10-Piece Bag Set with its numerous bags for storage as well as four travel size bottles for shampoo, conditioner, and lotion.

When it comes to clothes shopping for your teenager or undergrad, you’ve probably discovered that they prefer quantity over quality. Your daughter probably doesn’t need thirty dresses and your son only wears three of the ten pairs of shorts he owns. That’s why informing young people about the importance of conserving resources, even when it comes to something as simple as clothing, is essential. Threads 4 Thought is a fashion brand committed to making clothing pieces using sustainable materials and manufacturing those pieces in an environment where the workers are treated fairly. Affordable, versatile and stylish at the same time, Threads 4 Thought apparel, ranging from shirts and tanks to rompers and hoodies, is a brand striking up an important conversation that your kids need to hear.

We’ve all heard of the Kindle, but the newest addition to the Amazon family, the Kindle Voyage, is a major upgrade. Its high-resolution 300 ppi display reads like a book, making it ideal for a college student or dual-enrollment student who doesn’t want to lug around heavy textbooks. It also has an adaptive front light for reading at night or during the day and the battery now lasts weeks, not just hours. The thinnest Kindle ever, this device is a must for your college freshman.

The post Back-to-School Essentials You Didn’t Know Your Kids Needed appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.